Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Mar 2nd, 2016–Mar 5th, 2016

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: Waterton Lakes.

More new snow has fallen at upper elevations near the divide, expect to find some good turns in sheltered areas and wind slabs in the lee of exposed features.

Weather Forecast

A weakening front will bring unsettled air through the area on Thursday, giving scattered flurries, moderate to strong SW winds and ongoing warm temperatures (freezing level around 1750m). This is followed by a brief ridge on Friday which will bring sunny skies, light winds, and slightly cooler temps.

Snowpack Summary

Up to 25cm of recent storm snow is being redistributed by Strong SW winds, building on existing large cornices, and creating fresh wind slabs on many lee slopes. The new snow overlies a well settled mid snowpack with a series of up to 4 crusts on all but shaded alpine aspects. The bonds to these crusts warrant assessment but appear strong for now.

Avalanche Summary

No recent activity has been observed or reported. On Monday, a neighboring operation observed a large slab avalanche on a north aspect, this was triggered by cornice fall in extreme terrain.

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Moderate to strong SW winds continue to blow recent snowfall onto lee slopes, forming wind slabs.

Test slopes before committing to them.Use caution in lee areas. New snowfall mixed with wind loading is creating Wind Slabs.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 2

Cornices

Cornices have been growing in size. These can fail at any time, but should be given an especially wide berth when temperatures are warm, and/or snow is being transported by wind.

Minimize exposure to overhead hazard from cornices.Give cornices a wide berth when traveling on ridges.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 2