Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 5th, 2018 4:56PM

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

timothy johnson, Parks Canada

Waterton Lakes.

Hazard is diminishing for now. Stay vigilant as the warm temperatures and strong sun can wake weak layers up.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Moderate SW winds and day time temperatures rising to around freezing. No significant snowfall forecast.

Snowpack Summary

Alpine windward terrain is scoured but lee gullies are wind loaded.Â Where there is snow the mid-layer is well settled, but overlies a sleeping dragon as a deep persistent layer at the bottom of the snow pack.

Avalanche Summary

Loose dry avalanches noted on steep terrain.

Confidence

Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain on Wednesday

Problems

Loose Dry

Avoid terrain traps, such as gullies, where the consequences of a small avalanche could be serious.Use caution above cliffs where small avalanches may have severe consequences.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 1.5

Deep Persistent Slabs

No recent avalanches have been observed on this facet layer but this is the sleeping dragon.

Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices which could easily trigger deep slabs.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Unlikely

Expected Size

2 - 4

Wind Slabs

Isolated wind slabs in steep gullies

Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.Minimize overhead exposure during periods of heavy loading from new snow, wind.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Mar 8th, 2018 4:00PM