Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Banff Yoho Kootenay.
Natural avalanches were still observed in past 36 hours. Conservative decision making is still required.
Weather Forecast
Mixed sun and cloud for Thursday with light snow beginning on Thursday night. Valley bottom highs of around -4 and ridge-top highs of -12 forecast for Thursday.
Snowpack Summary
Several cm of fresh snow exist over a surface crust (below 2100m). Recent storm snow (5 day total of 65-90 cm) is starting to settle. A melt/freeze crust exists near the ground (in some locations). Wind slabs and residual storm slabs exist in alpine and down into tree-line elevations. Snowpack depths at tree-line average 60-110 cm.a
Avalanche Summary
The natural avalanche from the recent storm has tapered however Lake Louise Ski Resort is still reporting explosive triggered and natural avalanches on Wednesday. These are primarily windslabs up to size 2 in the alpine, however one natural size 3 was also observed.
Confidence
Avalanche Problems
Wind Slabs
Windslabs exist in the alpine and down into some tree-line locations. There is lots of snow available for transport so watch local conditions.
- Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.
- Watch for surface cracking and stiffer surface layers of snow. Avoid wind loaded terrain.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible - Likely
Expected Size: 1 - 2.5
Storm Slabs
Storm snow is beginning to settle and bond but residual storm slabs still exist in alpine and tree-line locations.
- Make observations and assess conditions continually as you travel.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 2