Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 25th, 2012 4:00PM

The alpine rating is considerable, the treeline rating is considerable, and the below treeline rating is considerable. Known problems include Loose Wet, Cornices and Deep Persistent Slabs.

jeremy.mackenzie, Alberta Parks

Kananaskis.

As much as 20mm of rain is possible in the next 24 hours with freezing levels as high as 2800m. Avalanche activity is expected at all elevations and on all aspects. Avoid large and committing terrain until more favourable conditions return.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather is uncertain

Weather Forecast

Freezing levels will remain elevated on Thursday and Thursday night with as much as 20mm of rain extending as high as 2800m. Winds will be moderate to strong out of the south. Temperatures will drop on Friday.

Avalanche Summary

Snowpack Summary

Problems

Loose Wet

Rain forecasted for Thursday will lead to a drastic decrease in snow stability as the snowpack becomes saturated, particularly at lower elevations. Avoid run out zones and choose terrain very carefully if you choose to venture out.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Very Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Cornices

Cornices are sagging in the current heat wave. Cornice failures could be large enough triggers to activate the deep weak layers in the snowpack, especially when the snow is isothermal.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 5

Deep Persistent Slabs

Warm days may re-awaken some of the deeply buried weak layers lingering at the base of the snowpack. There has been no recent activity on this layer but that could change will the continued warm temperatures and rain in the forecast.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

4 - 7

Valid until: Apr 26th, 2012 9:00AM