Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Banff Yoho Kootenay.
As winds pick up Thursday night, avalanche hazard will start to increase. A significant storm arriving midday Friday could be a major shake-up for our snowpack.
Weather Forecast
A trough forming over the prairies will serve to increase winds overnight Thursday through the forecast area with trace amounts of snow. Midday Friday marks the start of a significant storm event arriving from the Pacific. Expect strong SW winds and valley bottom temperatures to rise to zero while the intensity of snowfall increases into Saturday.
Snowpack Summary
The snow surface conditions are soft, dry snow. This snow buries wind effect found in open areas at high elevations. The Dec 13 and Dec 7 sun crust/surface hoar/facet layers are down ~ 50cm and ~80 cm respectively and are strengthening. The decomposing Nov crust/facets sits at the bottom of the snowpack. Height of snow at tree line is 120-170cm.
Avalanche Summary
A size 2 cornice fall was noted on Mt Rundle earlier in the day but otherwise we have had no new avalanche observations or reports.
Confidence
Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Friday
Avalanche Problems
Wind Slabs
Recent light snowfall has started to add up and as winds start to blow, new wind slabs have started to form. Expect these to develop quickly Friday in open areas treeline and above.
- Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices which could trigger slabs or larger sluffs.
- Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and roll-overs.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Likely
Expected Size: 1 - 2