Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 28th, 2012 8:03AM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs.

Parks Canada sylvia forest, Parks Canada

Little change is expected today in the snowpack, however this evening a strong system is expected to bring snow for the next several days, burying a layer of surface hoar and facets.  Avalanche hazard will change over the weekend, stay tuned.

Summary

Weather Forecast

An arctic front lying just north of Golden, combined with a mild SW flow, will bring light precipitation to Glacier Park in early evening (up to 10cm).  Precipitation will continue through Thursday, but the brunt of the snow will arrive on Friday. 

Snowpack Summary

No new snow, and cool overnight temperatures are promoting near surface faceting and surface hoar.  The Nov. 16 sun crust and Nov. 6 rain crust appear to be dormant for the time being.  The primary concern today are wind slabs above treeline.

Avalanche Summary

A registration shoot yesterday in steep start zones produced small slab avalanches to size 2.  Otherwise no new avalanche activity.

Confidence

Due to the number of field observations

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs
Pockets of wind slab exist above treeline.  Recent NE winds may be creating reverse loading, so be attentive on all aspects today, especially when above cliffs or terrain traps.
Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Nov 29th, 2012 8:00AM