Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Waterton Lakes.
Though the snowpack is mainly in the grips of daily spring temperature swings, a recent large avalanche failing on basal weaknesses on Mt Blackiston is a good reminder that winter remains on high north faces.
Weather Forecast
Friday:Â Mix of sun and cloud. West winds 50km/h gusting to 100. 5-10 mm of precipitation overnight. Freezing Level 2500m
Saturday: Scattered showers. Moderate West wind with extreme gusts. Freezing Level 1800m
Sunday: Sunny. Freezing Level 2000m
Snowpack Summary
In most areas we are seeing a typical spring snowpack with crusts breaking down in the heat of the day. The exception is high North facing terrain where temperatures have stayed cold and a winter snowpack remains, with facets continuing to linger at the base. The midpack is generally well settled.
Avalanche Summary
Forecaster observed a large avalanche on a high north facing bowl on Mount Blackiston that occurred sometime in the last week. It was triggered by cornice fall, and ran on basal weaknesses. Otherwise, no recent avalanches were observed.
Confidence
Avalanche Problems
Loose Wet
Recent snow may begin to slide on solar aspects as the sun makes an appearance and temperatures rise.
- Use extra caution on solar slopes or if the snow is moist or wet.
- Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.
Aspects: East, South East, South, South West, West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 1.5
Deep Persistent Slabs
Deep layers are still responsive to large triggers (think cornices or rain) on high north faces. Though triggering this layer is unlikely, it's not impossible as evidenced by a large avalanche on Mt. Blackiston last week.
- Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices which could trigger the deep persistent slab.
Aspects: North.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood: Unlikely
Expected Size: 2 - 3