Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 27th, 2012 8:00AM

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

Sylvia Forest, Parks Canada

Glacier.

Forecasted moderate to strong NW winds could change things in the alpine - stay tuned, and be alert to changing conditions. Be aware of large cornices, glide cracks, and thin snow bridges on glaciers.

Summary

Weather Forecast

A NW flow over the area will be replaced with an approaching upper ridge. Moderate to strong NW winds, cool temperatures, with a mix of sun and cloud are expected today, with light snow flurries. Dryer conditions are expected for Friday.

Snowpack Summary

Light snow flurries have covered a thin layer of surface hoar, which is best developed between 1700 - 1900 meters. Isolated pockets of wind slab may also have been covered. These persist on wind exposed slopes, and lee slopes near ridge crests. The mid-pack remains strong. Sluffing of surface snow can be expected in steep terrain.

Avalanche Summary

A small avalanche cycle was noted yesterday, likely from overnight winds on Dec. 25. These slides were predominantly on steep terrain from alpine start zones. Some surface sluffing from skiers has also been observed.

Confidence

Due to the number and quality of field observations

Problems

Wind Slabs

Isolated pockets of wind slab can still be found in specific locations near ridge crests and gully features.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.Stay well to the windward side of corniced ridges.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Loose Dry

Surface sluffing remains likely in steep terrain. Volumes may be greater today, due to a skiff of new snow over a layer of surface hoar, most notable at treeline.

Be aware of party members below you that may be exposed to your sluffs.Be cautious of sluffing in steep terrain.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 28th, 2012 8:00AM