Winds continue to buffet the Icefields yet good skiing can be found in sheltered locations. Weather models are not agreeing with amounts or timing of warm front. If more precipitation arrives plus warmer temperatures, expect the danger to increase.
Summary
Weather Forecast
Wednesday will bring a warm front, possibly 5-10cm of snow, rain lower elevations with freezing level 1700m, and strong SW alpine winds. The models are not agreeing with Wednesday's timing. Thursday will have cooling trend, diminished winds, flurries, and lower freezing level. Friday will be much like Thursday.
Snowpack Summary
Soft slabs continue to form at exposed treeline locations and above from today's moderate West winds. Previous North winds reverse loaded many slopes and gullies. 90cm of snow fell since March 13. Snow transport is occurring. At treeline, soft slabs rest on a suncrust 80 cm deep in south facing terrain. Below treeline is generally supportive.
Avalanche Summary
Tuesday's patrol had 100% visibility. Several recent large avalanches to size 3 noted on large high elevation features on various aspects from the past 24hrs. A number of loose moist avalanches up to size 2 were noted mainly from sun impacted slopes, gullies, and cliffs. All these observed recent avalanches were running relatively far.
Confidence
Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Wednesday
garth lemke,
Parks Canada
