Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 12th, 2012 5:58PM

The alpine rating is considerable, the treeline rating is considerable, and the below treeline rating is high. Known problems include Wet Slabs, Deep Persistent Slabs and Storm Slabs.

Brad White, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Rain in the lower elevations and snow above 2000 meters today and overnight tonight will some dangerous avalanche conditions. Wait for the freezing levels to drop and stay off isothermal slopes. JBW

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain on Saturday

Problems

Wet Slabs

Rain saturated surface snow and a poor overnight freeze is creating highly unstable snow below 2000m. Widespread avalanches have been observed. This condition will improve when freezing levels drop to the surface on Saturday.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Deep Persistent Slabs

New snow and melting has caused some deep slab releases to ground. Some of these are very large and likely not survivable if you were caught. Steep, unsupported and rocky areas with shallow snowpack should be avoided.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Storm Slabs

New snow with the storm will be resting on a variety of old surfaces including crusts and facets. Careful route selection is advised until the new snow bonds and settles.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Apr 13th, 2012 4:00PM