Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Feb 6th, 2013–Feb 7th, 2013

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

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low

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

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: Banff Yoho Kootenay.

The snowpack is generally feeling weaker due to the continued faceting, or rotting, of the mid-pack. It is common to feel like you are collapsing deeper into the snow, especially in shallow areas east of the Divide.

Weather Forecast

The west coast seems to be getting all the snow...blast! No snow in the forecast for the Rockies, with light winds in the alpine and temp's staying near seasonal values. I might threaten to burn a pair of my skis to get the snow to return to our region!

Snowpack Summary

In general, expect a faceted snowpack, especially in areas with < 100cm of snow (ie east of the Divide). The high alpine has seen strong winds, with variable soft to hard slabs present throughout. The Jan 6 interface is still present in isolated locations. It is buried approx. 40cm down and is generally unreactive to human traffic.

Avalanche Summary

No avalanches reported or observed today.

Confidence

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Strong wind has promoted the development of wind slabs in the alpine and open tree-line features. There has been little natural avalanche activity with these new slabs, but human triggering is still possible, especially in thin, weak areas.

Avoid shallow snowpack areas where triggering is more likely.Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 2