Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Oct 23rd, 2019 4:00PM

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

Parks Canada william lawson, Parks Canada

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Avalanches are happening in the forecast region. Ice climbers take note of changing conditions at upper elevation while traveling in avalanche terrain.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Check Environment Canada for updates to the Banff and Yoho National Park forecast. The 10 day outlook for the forecast region is showing snow starting Thursday ending Saturday with acuminated values of 10-20cm. This is followed by clearing skies and a decrease in temperatures for the remainder of the week.

Snowpack Summary

A broad contrast in conditions exist in the forecast region. While the valley bottom is still green, a winter snowpack is starting to develop at higher elevations. You can expect to find wind slabs, faceted layers and highly variable condition in the alpine. Upper elevation gulleys could be holding over 100cm creating a serious avalanche threat.

Avalanche Summary

Natural avalanche activity has been observed through the forecast region. In most observations avalanches have released from high alpine terrain with an increase in activity as high wind values rip through the valley.

Confidence

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs

Strong winds have transported the early season snow, creating wind slabs at upper elevations. While traveling in avalanche terrain be weary of active snow transport and high wind values as this will likely spark an increase in avalanche activity.

  • Be careful around wind loaded areas near ridge crests, cross loaded gullies and roll-overs.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2.5

Valid until: Oct 24th, 2019 4:00PM