Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 16th, 2020 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs and Deep Persistent Slabs.
Deryl Kelly,
Traces of snow and wind will encourage new wind slab development in the alpine predominately but, possible in open and exposed treeline features.
Forecast looking promising for a snowy refresh through the region this weekend
Summary
Weather Forecast
Cloudy with scattered flurries over the next 48hrs with up to 6cm before Friday. Alpine temperatures, Low -11 C, High -8 C with gusty SW winds.
Snowpack Summary
Strong winds are creating wind slabs in the alpine and open treeline. The snowpack is generally supportive despite having a weaker, deep persistent base. Average depth is 55cm - 150cm depending on region and elevation.
Avalanche Summary
No new natural avalanche observations from the field team in the Icefields
Confidence
Problems
Wind Slabs
Snow and moderate winds forming new slabs on leeward and cross-loaded terrain features. These slabs will probably not bond well to the current snow surface.
- Minimize overhead exposure during periods of heavy loading from new snow, wind.
- Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and roll-overs.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, North West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Deep Persistent Slabs
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations.
- If triggered the wind slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.
- Use caution in thin snowpack areas.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 17th, 2020 4:00PM
