Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Jan 20th, 2012–Jan 23rd, 2012

Alpine

4: High

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be high

Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable

Below Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be considerable

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Regions: Waterton Lakes.

More snow expected Fri. night, with 20cms likely near the divide. Westerly winds increasing Saturday PM to 60-80km/hr. Lots of loose snow for transport, expect avalanche danger to increase quickly on N and E'ly lee slopes, and other lee terrain.

Avalanche Problems

Storm Slabs

Storm snow in the range of 40-50cms was deposited over the past few days. Resuming light to moderate westerly winds will quickly redistribute this light snow onto north and easterly facing slopes and other lee terrain features.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 3

Persistent Slabs

Previously deposited slabs on easterly facing terrain are sitting on a variety of potentially weak crystals and hard crusts. The new storm snow may provide additional loading; human triggering is unlikely but possible in isolated locations.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3