Avalanche Forecast

Issued: May 1st, 2013 3:00PM

The alpine rating is below threshold, the treeline rating is below threshold, and the below treeline rating is below threshold. Known problems include Loose Wet, Wind Slabs and Cornices.

jeremy.mackenzie, Alberta Parks

Kananaskis.

This is the last Avalanche Bulletin of the season.Avalanche Danger will be HIGH during times of intense solar radiation, warm temperatures and/or rain.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Warm and sunny conditions are expected this weekend. This will lead to a significant increase in avalanche hazard during the heat of the days. An avalanche cycle is expected, particularly on solar aspects.

Avalanche Summary

Isolated slab activity up to size 2.0 continues in alpine and treeline areas on N and E aspects. Loose wet slides are anticipated as solar radiation and daytime heating increase. Cornices failures are also possible during warm periods.

Snowpack Summary

The snowpack is still in transition to spring conditions. At higher elevations wind slabs are still present in lee and cross-loaded features. Numerous layers of crust exist in the snowpack, and these will melt and re-form each day with the daily temperature and solar radiation swings. Cornices are a real concern during warmer periods, and cornice failures could entrain significant snow on slopes below especially when the snowpack is warm. Isothermal conditions will become more prevalent as the season progresses, making for difficult travel and potentially hazardous conditions.

Problems

Loose Wet

Solar aspects are susceptible to increasing avalanche danger each day as solar radiation affect the snowpack. Plan your day to avoid exposure to large sunny slopes in the afternoons. Watch for isothermal conditions at lower elevation on all aspects.

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 - 4

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs are still found in Alpine areas on lee and cross-loaded features. In most areas these slabs sit on a crust. Take the time to evaluate the bond of the wind slabs to the crusts below.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Cornices

Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices.>

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

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