Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Feb 3rd, 2025 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs.
Parks Canada,
Avalanche Canada
Wind slabs are building with the moderate Easterly winds. These slabs are poorly bonded to the variety of surfaces they sit upon.
It might be time to choose more conservative objectives, with slabs sitting upon weak surface hoar/facets or a suncrust. Check out the forecasters blog "Shifting your Mindset"
Summary
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
Natural avalanche activity has slowed down but several human-triggered avalanches were reported/witnessed today.
A sz 2 wind slab was triggered by a skier part way down Forever Young, resulting in injuries.
A sz 1.5 wind slab on the Ravens was observed while flying to the above accident.
Neighboring operations report that the Jan 7th/9th surface hoar is starting to become reactive as well but we have not seen activity on this layer in the park yet.
Snowpack Summary
A surface slab of varying density can be found in most locations throughout the park producing easy & very easy results in snowpack testing. These slabs are 20-40cms thick and bury a weak layer of surface hoar, and/or sun crusts (on steep solar aspects).
Below this interface are firm, wind pressed surfaces in exposed areas and low density sugary snow in sheltered areas.
The Jan 7th layer is down 50-80cm, comprised of surface hoar and/or a thin crust on steep S aspects.
Weather Summary
Arctic air pushes into the region, bringing cold temps and valley-bottom outflow winds.
Tonight Clear periods. Alpine low -22°C. Ridge wind E-30km/h.
Tues A mix of sun & cloud. Alpine high -18°C. Ridge wind E-20km/h. Alpine temperature inversion, with even colder temps in the valley.
Wed A mix of sun & cloud. Alpine high -17°C. Ridge wind W-20km/h.
Thurs A mix of sun & cloud. Alpine high -17°C. Ridge wind W-20km/h.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Make conservative terrain choices and avoid overhead hazard.
- Be aware of the potential for remote triggering and large avalanches due to buried surface hoar.
Problems
Wind Slabs
Windborne snow is accumulating on top of a widespread weak layer. Expect these slabs to be more reactive with increased winds and loading, especially as the slab becomes stiffer and more cohesive.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Feb 4th, 2025 4:00PM
