Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 10th, 2012–Dec 11th, 2012

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

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Strong wind from the NW have created wind slabs in alpine lee areas. Human triggering is possible in these areas.

Weather Forecast

Subsiding wind, warming temperatures and a clearing trend will contribute to decreasing the danger rating from considerable to moderate over the next few days.

Snowpack Summary

Wind slabs of varying thickness have been developing on NE through SE aspects due to the moderate to strong wind. These wind slabs sit over top of a well settled mid pack and the Nov 6 rain crust. The Nov 6th crusts lies approximately 30cm from the ground.

Avalanche Summary

One size two avalanche was observed high on Bourgeau 8, above the Bourgeau Left ice climb. It is suspected to be a recently developed wind slab from todays wind event. No other avalanches were observed or reported. Photo of avalanche in Bourgeau 8.

Confidence

Wind effect is extremely variable on Monday

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Strong wind from the NW have created wind slabs in the alpine. These wind slabs vary in thickness between 15 and 30cm.

Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.Use caution in lee areas in the alpine. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3

Deep Persistent Slabs

The Nov 6th crust should still be in the back of your mind. Recent avalanches on this layer combined with uncertain means of triggering make venturing out onto big open slopes a committing choice.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 2 - 3