Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 16th, 2013 3:00PM

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

Mike.Koppang, Alberta Parks

Kananaskis.

Ice climbers beware of gullies and the likelihood of there being loose dry avalanches. Upcoming winds will redistribute the snow, the snowpack may change quickly as a result.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Due to variable weather conditions

Weather Forecast

Flurries overnight with increasing winds (strong range) out of the West. Temps still predicted to fall.

Avalanche Summary

Loose dry avalanches out of very steep, rocky terrain were observed today.

Snowpack Summary

Up to 10cm's of low density snow has fallen. Moderate winds have left most of this new snow available for transport. Storm slabs probably exist near ridgeline in the ALP. These will be sitting on the hard slabs created during the last wind event. The difference in slab density may make for touchy conditions in specific areas.

Problems

Storm Slabs

Touchy storm slabs will continue to develop in Alpine terrain with recent snow and winds. Winds are forecasted to reach into the strong range overnight.

Avoid freshly wind loaded features.>Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.>

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Wind Slabs

The spotty windslabs that have been a problem in the last while will now be buried below the incoming snow.

Make observations and assess conditions continually as you travel.>

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Nov 17th, 2013 2:00PM