Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 23rd, 2012 4:00PM

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

aaron beardmore, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Avalanche control is being conducted in the Bourgeau slide paths tomorrow. No activities in this location during this time. However, in all other locations, new snow has refreshed the ski quality. Be on the lookout for wind slabs.

Summary

Weather Forecast

A stable weather patter with light wind, clearing skies and next to no precipitation will allow for the danger ratings to remain level. The next precipitation is forecasted for early on Wednesday.

Snowpack Summary

10 to 20cm of low density snow has fallen over the forecast region. Little wind accompanied the storm. This new snow has improved ski quality but has buried wind slabs that were formed by strong wind in the last few days. Use caution in areas that have seen previous wind affect.

Avalanche Summary

No avalanches observed or reported today.

Confidence

Wind effect is extremely variable

Problems

Wind Slabs

New snow from last night (10-20cm) came with very little wind. Therefore, wind slabs formed in the last few days have now been buried. These wind slabs ranged between 20 and 50cm thick and are located in isolated lee areas.

Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.Stay off recent wind loaded areas until the slope has had a chance to stabilize.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Dec 24th, 2012 4:00PM