Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 19th, 2013 9:47AM

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

jfloyer, Avalanche Canada

South Rockies.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Due to variable snowpack conditions

Weather Forecast

Synopsis: Relatively benign weather is anticipated until Friday afternoon, when a frontal system is expected to bring light precipitation.Wednesday: Flurries possible in the morning, clearing in the afternoon. Light southwesterly winds. Freezing level near valley bottom.Thursday: dry and clear, becoming more cloudy in the afternoon. Light westerly winds. Freezing level near valley bottom.Friday: Light snowfall starting late in the day. Light westerly winds, picking up in the afternoon. Freezing level near valley bottom.

Avalanche Summary

Small loose snow avalanches have been reported in the recent new snow.

Snowpack Summary

Southeastern parts of the region saw 30-40cm new snow in the last storm, while western areas saw just a trace. This new snow overlies old wind slabs on higher north and east facing terrain and sun crusts on solar aspects. Wind slabs are extensive in exposed areas and cornices are reported to be well developed. A surface hoar/facet/sun crust layer from mid February (12th) may be buried in the top 20 cm or so, where it hasn't been blown away by the wind and is likely making some of the wind slabs more touchy. Mid and lower snowpack layers are generally well settled and stable.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Relatively light but locally gusty winds have created wind slabs near ridge lines in exposed areas. If the wind picks up, expect this problem to become more widespread.

Watch for freshly wind loaded features in steep terrain.>Watch for whumpfing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks or recent avalanches.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Loose Dry

Loose snow avalanches running surprisingly far have been observed in the recent new snow, particularly in southeast parts of the region.

On steep slopes, pull over periodically or cut into a new line to manage sluffing.>Avoid exposure to terrain traps where the consequences of a small avalanche could be serious.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Feb 20th, 2013 2:00PM