Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Bow Valley, Highwood Pass, Kananaskis, North 40, Spray - KLakes.
Early season conditions are still present along with a generally weak snowpack. Human triggering is quite likely and conservative route finding is highly recommended.
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches were observed today in the Highwood Pass area.
Snowpack Summary
A few cm's fell on Wednesday to add to our 30-40cm of storm snow that sits on top of the basal facets. Some wind slabs are present near ridge lines and cross loaded gullies.
We generally have a weak snowpack with the base consisting of 40cm of facets. This will be on our radar for some time to come and continue to be a concern for triggering.
Weather Summary
Thursday will start off at -22c and warm up to a balmy -12c. Skies will be a mixed bag of sun and cloud. Winds are expected to be light out of the SW.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Loose avalanches may start small but they can grow and push you into dangerous terrain.
- Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
- Ice climbers should be equipped with avalanche safety gear.
Avalanche Problems
Loose Dry
All of this loose/dry storm snow will continue to lead to avalanches up to size 2. If a slide occurs, there is a possibility that it will entrain the facets underneath.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Likely
Expected Size: 1 - 2
Wind Slabs
Wind slabs are expected in all Alpine terrain on all aspects. At Treeline these slabs are expected to be more confined to ridge-crests and gully features.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Likely
Expected Size: 1.5 - 2.5