Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 3rd, 2020 3:00PM

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

matt, Avalanche Canada

Kananaskis.

We desperately need snow to freshen up the skiing! While we wait, the ice climbing, XC skiing and snowshoeing are still in pretty good shape. Not into those? The front ranges will be warm and dry for a couple of days yet. Hiking or biking are options for a day out.

Summary

Confidence

High -

Weather Forecast

A daytime high of -4 tomorrow for the Burstall Pass area. No snow, but some thin cloud might form a few flurries near the divide. Fingers crossed! Alpine winds will ne about 45n/hr from teh NW.

Avalanche Summary

Nothing today.

Snowpack Summary

Alpine areas have been heavily affected by the past week of strong winds and wind slabs are widespread at tree line and above. Ridges and ribs are stripped free of snow while lee and cross-loaded terrain have deep deposits of wind loaded snow. The November crust is down 30-100cm and is producing anywhere from moderate to no results.

Terrain and Travel

Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and roll-overs.
Watch for areas of hard wind slab on alpine features.
Approach lee and cross-loaded slopes with caution.
Avoid shallow snowpack areas, rock outcroppings and steep convex terrain where triggering is most likely.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Hard windslabs are widespread in alpine areas and even down into treeline. Listen for that drummy or hollow feel as an indication to be extra careful.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2.5

Persistent Slabs

The November crust continues to be the main concern in the snowpack. It is now buried anywhere from 30 to 100cm deep and it could be sensitive to human triggering in steep or unsupported terrain. Shallow snowpack areas may also be a trigger point.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1.5 - 3

Valid until: Dec 4th, 2020 3:00PM