Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 26th, 2012 8:15AM

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

catherine brown, Parks Canada

Glacier.

A storm forecast for this afternoon and evening could bring heavy precipitation with high freezing levels. Avalanche danger will deteriorate rapidly with these conditions.

Summary

Problems

Deep Persistent Slabs

Use extra caution on large alpine slopes. Choose well-supported terrain and pay attention to signs of instability. A snowpack weakness is buried down 1.5 to 2 m. Consequences are high if this layer does fail.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Unlikely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs and loaded pillows could possibly be triggered by skiers on steep, convex terrain. This is most likely where a crust formed down 30-40 cm. Slabs formed at ridge lines and cross loaded features.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Cornices

Most ridges throughout the Park have massive cornices. New snow this afternoon and evening could trigger these large snow masses. Cornice failure is unpredictable. Be aware of the overhead hazard on your approach.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Valid until: Mar 27th, 2012 8:00AM