Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 4th, 2018 4:00PM

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

timothy johnson, Parks Canada

Waterton Lakes.

Minimize exposure to overhead hazards and building wind slabs.

Summary

Weather Forecast

More snow on the way throughout Monday with light NE winds. Followed by a return to strong winds from the west by late Tuesday.

Snowpack Summary

New snow with more on the way covering either bare ground, the existing thin snow pack in sheltered areas or wind loaded gullies.

Avalanche Summary

Observed a small loose dry avalanche out of steep, rocky terrain.

Confidence

Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Tuesday

Problems

Loose Dry

Avoid traveling on ledges and cliffs where small avalanches may have severe consequences.Watch for clues, like sluffing off of cliffs, that the snowpack is warming up.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 1.5

Wind Slabs

Expecting to build throughout the week with the forecasted winds.

Minimize overhead exposure during periods of heavy loading from new snow, wind.Avoid terrain traps, such as gullies, where the consequences of a small avalanche could be serious.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Feb 7th, 2018 4:00PM