Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 1st, 2013 8:45AM

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

pgoddard, Avalanche Canada

South Rockies.

Saturday’s danger ratings are based on intense sunshine and warming affecting the upper snowpack.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain on Saturday

Weather Forecast

Saturday: Light W wind. Alpine temperature rising to near 0. Sunny skies, with valley cloud. No snow.Sunday: Moderate to strong SW wind. Alpine temperature near -7. Light snow is possible.Monday: Light SW wind. Alpine temperature near -7. Light snow.

Avalanche Summary

A few small loose dry avalanches have been triggered naturally and by skiers over the last few days.

Snowpack Summary

Recent westerly winds have shifted snow into small slabs on lee slopes. Cornices can be found. An interface buried on Jan 23 is down about 20-35 cm. The nature of this interface varies considerably from place to place. In most locations it appears to be well bonded. Buried surface hoar was found in the north Elk Valley, but this is likely to be a localized problem. The lower snowpack is generally well-settled. Solar warming on Saturday may weaken the upper snowpack. This is expected to be short-lived, with cooler temperatures and cloud forecast for Sunday.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs may be found behind ridges, ribs and gully walls.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices, especially if temperatures are warm.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Persistent Slabs

A mixed bag of weak interfaces is buried about 20-30 cm down. With forecast warming temperatures, the likelihood of triggering a slab may increase.

Choose well supported terrain without convexities.>Avoid sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong, especially if snow is moist or wet.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Feb 2nd, 2013 2:00PM