Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 21st, 2015 8:20AM

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.

Avalanche Canada rbuhler, Avalanche Canada

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South Rockies.

It's early in the season but there is more than enough snow for avalanches. If you are out in the mountains, please post your observations to the Mountain Information Network.

Summary

Confidence

Poor - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

High pressure will remain the dominant feature on Sunday. Partly sunny and dry conditions are expected. A temperature inversion is possible and alpine winds are expected to be moderate from the NW. A weak storm system is forecast to reach the region Monday afternoon or evening. Increasing cloudiness is expected during the day and alpine winds will increase to moderate or strong from the SW.  Freezing levels are forecast to reach 1200-1500m on Monday afternoon.  Cold arctic air is expected to reach the region on Tuesday.  As the cold front passes, snowfall is expected to valley bottom.  Models are currently showing 5-10mm of precipitation on Tuesday.

Avalanche Summary

No recent avalanches have been reported. There was a natural avalanche cycle in the alpine last week during the storm.

Snowpack Summary

Snowpack observations have been very limited as the season commences. Initial reports suggest that there is enough snow above around 1700m for avalanches to occur. A thick surface crust exists to around treeline elevation. Recent wind may have formed thin wind slabs in the alpine.

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs
It may still be possible to trigger a wind slab in the alpine, especially on steep, unsupported slopes.
If you are increasing your exposure to avalanche terrain, do it gradually as you gather information. >Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Nov 22nd, 2015 2:00PM

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