Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 29th, 2011–Dec 30th, 2011

Alpine

4: High

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be high

Treeline

4: High

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be high

Below Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be considerable

Alpine

4: High

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be high

Treeline

4: High

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be high

Below Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be considerable

Alpine

4: High

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be high

Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Regions: Glacier.

Avalanche Problems

Storm Slabs

The park received another 40cm storm snow last night. The Dec 24 surface hoar layer is now buried by 40-60cm of snow and is very reactive to skier triggering. Slabbing and skier triggered avalanches have been observed throughout the area.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Very Likely

Expected Size: 2 - 3

Persistent Slabs

Another surface hoar layer (Dec. 11) is buried by 100-140cm of storm snow. This layer has become very reactive with the additional snow load and is propagating widely. Rain below 1200m and moist snow above has made travel tricky in places.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Likely

Expected Size: 2 - 4

Deep Persistent Slabs

Weak granular snow crystals at the base of the snowpack are also contributing to large avalanches, especially near glacial ice. Large glide cracks failing near ground are also a significant and unusual concern for this time of year.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 3 - 4