Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 6th, 2011–Dec 9th, 2011

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

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

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: Waterton Lakes.

12cm of new snow the past few days with strong southwest winds along the Divide creating a highly variable snow pack in open areas. We have good early season snow conditions with a supportive mid pack. 60cm snow pack depth at Little Prairie.

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Strong westerly winds this week have created the potential for surface slabs over this heavier mid pack. Isolated, small avalanches involving near surface layers were observed on Tuesday. Be cautious in wind loaded terrain.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

No real change in the base of the snowpack. The crust and facet layer is now buried a bit deeper, and will probably require a large load to trigger an avalanche. Don't be this trigger, as full depth, dangerous releases are still possible.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size: 2 - 4