Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 16th, 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, Loose Wet and Deep Persistent Slabs.

Lisa Paulson, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Best skiing will be found on North aspects at higher elevations. We likely need another major melt then freeze to bring larger alpine southerly features into shape.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain on Tuesday

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs up to 40 cm thick are reactive on old sun crusts. Yesterday, skiers remote triggered a 2.5 on a SE asp of Jimmy Simpson. Some steeper slopes (Mt. Hector) a 30-50 cm thick windslab over weak snow on ice - monitor snow depth as you travel.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Loose Wet

Very little activity today, a reasonable freeze last night and cloudy skies kept crusts intact. Tomorrow expect some sunny breaks, which may be enough to break down the crusts causing some loose wet avalanches on solar aspects below treeline.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

Watch out for thin & steep areas and large loads such as cornice failure which could trigger deep weaknesses. Thin areas are veiled by the new snow. Pay attention to snow distribution and depth as you travel.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Apr 17th, 2012 4:00PM