Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 7th, 2012 4:00PM

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

Brad White, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

We are still in transition from winter to spring. Large deep natural avalanches on steep northerly slopes and skier triggered avalanches in thin areas have been observed nearly every day this week. There a good choices available but use caution.JBW

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain on Tuesday

Problems

Deep Persistent Slabs

Several large deep avalanches have been observed over the last few days. These are failing near the ground, on glacial ice, or on the Feb 14 surface hoar. These are likely unsurvivable avalanches and do not inspire great confidence in the snowpack.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Loose Wet

The recent storm snow is sitting on several sun-crusts, which can provide a good sliding interface. Daytime heating & solar affect can increase the hazard on slopes overhead or on steeper terrain where buried crusts exist.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Wind Slabs

Fresh wind slabs and large cornices have formed in the alpine. Be extra careful in the immediate lees of alpine ridges, and on steep convex rolls and beware of the potential for cornice triggers above you.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Apr 8th, 2012 4:00PM