Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 12th, 2018 4:00PM

The alpine rating is considerable, the treeline rating is considerable, and the below treeline rating is considerable. Known problems include Loose Wet and Cornices.

grant statham, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Early morning avalanche danger is Low at all elevations, then once the temperatures warm up it quickly spikes up - however, low danger can still be found throughout the day on high elevation north facing terrain where the snow remains excellent.

Summary

Weather Forecast

This clear and beautiful weather will continue until late Wednesday, when a Pacific system moves into the area.Â Tuesday will start with a cold morning (overnight low of -14) but will quickly warm up to reach +5 to +10 again in the afternoon with no wind. Another perfect day ahead!

Snowpack Summary

North aspect snow is soft, cold and well settled with few weak layers of concern. South and west aspect snow has a suncrust on the surface that becomes moist by 11am. Currently we are moving from Low danger in the morning to High danger in the afternoon on solar aspects - so get an early start.

Avalanche Summary

Widespread wet loose avalanches up to size 2 running by 10 am today on sun exposed slopes. In particular, steep faces with rocks and cornices were alive with wet snow avalanches today and should be avoided.

Confidence

Problems

Loose Wet

Avoid steep gully areas and any sun exposed faces or overhead terrain - it will avalanche when the sun hits it. Stick to shaded terrain and look way overhead to make sure nothing big is hanging above you - things are falling off these days.

Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Very Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Cornices

Hot weather means cornice season, and this is the time when large mature cornices begin to fall off and the mountain sheds its snowpack. On ridges stay well away from cornices (they can reach back and get you), and avoid traveling under them.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Mar 13th, 2018 4:00PM