Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 5th, 2013 9:58AM

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

jlammers, Avalanche Canada

South Rockies.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Due to variable weather conditions

Weather Forecast

Wednesday: Trace amounts of new snow / Moderate to strong west winds / Alpine temperature of about -10.0Thursday: Light snowfall / Light west winds / Alpine temperature of about -7.0Friday: Clearing / Light northwest winds / Alpine temperature of about -9.0

Avalanche Summary

No recent avalanches have been reported.

Snowpack Summary

Very light accumulations overlie wind slab at higher elevations, settled storm snow and spotty surface hoar in more sheltered terrain, and a crust on previously sun-exposed slopes. A variable interface buried on Jan 23 is down about 15-35cm. In most locations it appears to be well bonded; however, buried surface hoar (up to 20mm) has been found in isolated parts of the North Elk valley. This will be something to watch as the overlying slab develops. The lower snowpack is generally well-settled.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Forecast light snowfall and strong west winds will create fresh wind slabs. Watch for triggering behind ridgecrests and in gullies.

Avoid freshly wind loaded features.>Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Feb 6th, 2013 2:00PM