Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Apr 7th, 2021 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs, Cornices and Loose Wet.
Deryl Kelly,
Low elevations (below 1800m) have transitioned to spring conditions, plan to travel early.
The Icefields region remains wintery and good travel and riding can be found, mostly in sheltered areas.
Summary
Weather Forecast
Wednesday night: Flurries. HN: 6 cm. Alpine temperature: Low -11 °C. Ridge wind W: 15 km/h gusting to 50 km/h.
Thursday: Cloudy with sunny periods. Alpine temperature: High -9 °C. Ridge wind W: 15-30 km/h.Â
Friday: Mainly cloudy with scattered flurries. HN: 4 cm. Low -12 °C, High -8 °C. Ridge wind SW: 20 km/h gusting to 50 km/h.
Snowpack Summary
New snow and steady SW winds building wind slab in open ALP and TL features. Snowpack shows strength and bonding in field tests; recurring instabilities are found close to surface. We are most concerned about potential to trigger deeper, persistent slabs (Fc, DH), especially as the snowpack changes with typical spring inputs (rain, sun, wet snow)
Avalanche Summary
A road patrol south today noted no new avalanches. Mostly obscured in the Alpine.
Confidence
Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain
Problems
Wind Slabs
Significant snow is available for transport at all elevations, additional inputs forecasted. Expect wind slabs to be reactive to human triggering.
- If triggered the wind slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.
- Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially in steep confined alpine terrain.
Aspects: North, North East, East.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Cornices
You need to be very cautious near or under these giant features. If triggered, it will step down to deeper layers.
- Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices which could easily trigger the deep persistent slab.
- Avoid travel on slopes that are exposed to cornices overhead.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, North West.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Loose Wet
Freezing levels are expected at about 1700 meters. Places like Parkers ridge (over 2000m) will most likely see dry snow. Further down the highway by Weeping wall could see a mix of snow and rain.
- Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.
Aspects: South East, South, South West, West.
Elevations: Treeline, Below Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Apr 8th, 2021 4:00PM
