Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Banff, Banff Yoho Kootenay, East Side 93N, Field, Kootenay, LLSA, Lake Louise, Little Yoho, Sunshine, West Side 93N.
Confidence
High
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches were observed or reported on Wednesday.
Snowpack Summary
A hard surface crust exists on all aspects except for north facing alpine slopes above 2200 m where dry, wind affected snow can be found. Small windslabs may be found in isolated areas near ridge crests.
In the mid-pack, the Feb 3 persistent layer (crust/facet layer) remains a feature in the snowpack but has been unreactive with recent colder temperatures. This layer is a greater concern in thin snowpack areas.
Weather Summary
Overcast skies with isolated flurries or showers are forecasted for Thursday. Winds will be SW in the moderate range and freezing levels in the 2000-2200m range.
Friday and Saturday will be similar conditions with total snowfall less then 10 cm by end of day on Saturday.
For more detailed weather click here.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Watch for wind-loaded pockets especially around ridgecrest and in extreme terrain.
- Use extra caution around cornices: they are large, fragile, and can trigger slabs on slopes below.
Avalanche Problems
Wind Slabs
Small windslabs may be found in the immediate lee of features in the alpine.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 1.5