Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 1st, 2013 3:00PM

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

burke.duncan, Alberta Parks

Kananaskis.

Lots of alpine terrain being utilized that ordinarily does not see traffic this early in the season - there is still potential for large avalanches in isolated areas.

Summary

Confidence

Good

Weather Forecast

A ridge of High pressure will keep skies mainly clear with no precip in the forecast for the next several days.

Avalanche Summary

A few small sluffs to Size 1 from south and east aspects. Size 1.5 SSL in narrow steep gully below treeline, 2100m, E aspect, 40 deg slope. Trigger uncertain - possible natural , possible human triggered as tracks could be seen in the vicinity.

Snowpack Summary

Surface hoar growth below treeline continues due to cold clear nights. More facetting of upper layers as well. Midpack strength continues to hang in there although the strong temperature gradient is weakening the midpack.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs of varying thickness are present in the Alpine on all aspects, especially along ridgelines. Buried wind slabs are also present on N and E aspects down 25 to 55cm in the snowpack.

Avoid lee and cross-loaded terrain along ridge tops.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Deep Persistent Slabs

This layer is still a concern despite the lack of activity. In most areas at and above treeline we have a generally "deep" snowpack, however shallow areas will be found in the alpine. Treat these variable areas with caution.

Be aware of thin areas that may propagate to deeper instabilites.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

3 - 6

Valid until: Jan 2nd, 2013 2:00PM