Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Nov 10th, 2015 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs and Loose Dry.
grant statham,
Avalanche Canada
Note that we have changed the boundary of the Little Yoho forecast region to now include the Field ice climbs on Mt. Dennis and Mt. Stephen. This is an important change. For the record, they're not ready to climb yet . . . but soon, forming fast.
Summary
Weather Forecast
Looks like a stormy week ahead, as a NW flow brings 10 cm of snow by mid-day on Wednesday while temperatures remain cool (-8 to -11). After a short break on Thursday, looks like a pumper of a storm for Friday with amounts up to 30 cm being predicted . . . alas, accompanied by significant warming. Expect an avalanche cycle on Friday up high.
Snowpack Summary
Total snowpack depths range from 35-45 cm at treeline across the forecast area with a 5mm layer of surface hoar on the surface. Approximately 25 cm of light snow overlies slightly stronger layer that sits on the ground. Two shears exist: one on the ground, and another down 15 cm from the top. Overall this snowpack is weak with little structure.
Avalanche Summary
Limited observations in the Little Yoho area, but expect slabs up to size 2.5 in high, glaciated terrain. Small avalanches observed in the Field ice climbs and on the west facing side of Mt. Ogden. Climbers should expect sluffing in gully areas.
Confidence
Problems
Wind Slabs
Avalanches up to 50 cm deep are being triggered in many areas in high alpine, glaciated terrain. Watch out for windloaded features which should be avoided at this time as triggering is easy.
- Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Loose Dry
The entire snowpack is unconsolidated, and loose avalanches have been observed to have run through confined gully areas - this is something ice climbers should keep in mind as they consider any overhead hazards to their routes.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Nov 11th, 2015 4:00PM
