Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 19th, 2012 4:10PM

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

Chris Gooliaff, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

The next storm is coming and may deliver 10-15cm late Friday and Saturday, along with strong west winds. The avalanche hazard will spike, and the snowpack will need some time to readjust to the added load and warm temp's.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain on Saturday

Problems

Wind Slabs

Thin windslabs exist at treeline and in the alpine. These are faceting out with the cold temperatures, but may be triggered by riders in the next few days. An avalanche on this layer may be enough to step down to the basal facets.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

Cold temperatures are facetting a well settled midpack which overrides a weaker facetted base. This weak base is found most places except the west side of the divide. Many thin spots exist in the alpine and treeline due to previous strong winds.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Wind Slabs

Climbers should avoid Cascade Falls and Rogan's Gully this weekend. There is a large amount of snow above these routes and with the coming storm and warm temp's, natural avalanches will threaten routes with large bowls above.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Jan 20th, 2012 4:00PM