Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 5th, 2015 4:29PM

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

edwin knox, Parks Canada

Waterton Lakes.

Watch for weakening of surface layers and overhead cornices this weekend with solar warming and temperatures rising to just above freezing at mid elevation. Some good turns can still be found in sheltered, more northerly slopes below treeline.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Weekend temperatures will rise to just above freezing at mid elevation during mid day. Combined with solar influences watch for weakening of near surface layers and ridge line cornices. No new snow is forecast. Expect moderate westerly winds.

Snowpack Summary

Hard slabs are now found in all open areas at treeline and above. They overlie a layer of low density snow on top of strong temperature or sun crusts or old wind slabs.Â Deeper persistent instabilities are presently bridged by a strong mid-pack in most locations. Watch for shallow higher elevation areas where triggering is still a possibility.

Avalanche Summary

March 4 saw a small cycle of natural avalanches failing on the previous crusts down 20 to 40cm as the snow from earlier in the week was redistributed on to northerly lee areas. No avalanches were observed on Thursday, March 5th

Confidence

Problems

Wind Slabs

Steep, unsupported terrain is a likely trigger spot for these newly formed hard slabs that are found in all open areas at treeline and above.

Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Mar 8th, 2015 5:00PM