Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 18th, 2012 4:10PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Deep Persistent Slabs.

ian jackson, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Observations of several large avalanches in the last 48 hrs from very steep alpine terrain indicate the possibility of a basal release still exists. A gradual warming trend with precip and stronger winds for Sat. will increase hazard for the weekend

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Problems

Wind Slabs

Thin windslabs exist at treeline and in the alpine. These will facet out with the forecasted cold temperatures, but may be triggerable by riders in the next few days. An avalanche on this layer may be enough to step down to the basal facets.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

Cold temperatures are facetting a well settled midpack which overrides a weaker facetted base. This weak base is found most places except the west side of the divide. Many thin spots exist in the alpine and treeline due to previous strong winds

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Jan 19th, 2012 4:00PM