Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 9th, 2013 10:48AM

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

mbender, Avalanche Canada

South Rockies.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Due to limited field observations for the entire period

Weather Forecast

Wednesday: A cold front traveling across the province will bring light precipitation. Freezing levels 1600m and moderate westerly winds are expected.Thursday: A lull between weather systems will mostly overcast skies with sunny breaks. Some light precipitation is possible. Freezing levels 1600m and strong northwesterly winds.Friday: Another pacific frontal system affects the southeast with some precipitation, but not until later in the day.

Avalanche Summary

Loose moist snow in motion released a wet slab on a North aspect of Mt. Hosmer. Loose wet or moist snow is expected to continue to release naturally from steep terrain or rocky areas at lower elevations.

Snowpack Summary

Overnight freezing has consolidated previously loose wet snow at treeline and above. Some new wind slabs may have developed during periods of strong easterly winds combined with new snow. The surface crust is expected to break down during the day and then re-freeze tonight. Moist or wet snow below treeline is not expected to have much of a recovery and may continue to be isothermal and weak.

Problems

Loose Wet

Loose moist or wet snow may continue to release naturally from steep terrain or rocky cliffs. Moist or wet snow in motion may scour down to the ground where the snowpack is isothermal.

Avoid travelling on slopes which are becoming wet due to rain, warm temperatures, or sun.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Wind Slabs

Recent snow and gusty winds may have formed windslabs in lee features in the alpine

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>Avoid freshly wind loaded features.>Extra caution needed around cornices with current conditions.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Valid until: Apr 10th, 2013 2:00PM