Avalanche Forecast

Issued: May 8th, 2019 4:00PM

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

Parks Canada adam greenberg, Parks Canada

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This is the last avalanche bulletin for the winter. For current information on avalanche conditions, check Avalanche Canada and the ACMG Mountain Conditions Report, or call 1-888-WARDENS and ask to speak with a Waterton Visitor Safety Technician.

Summary

Weather Forecast

A current overall weather forecast can be found at: https://www.avalanche.ca/weather/forecast, and local forecasts can be found at http://spotwx.com

Snowpack Summary

In most areas we are seeing a typical spring snowpack (a thick crust that is breaking down during the day over moist snow). The exception is high North facing terrain where weak layers deep on the snowpack have been triggered by cornice fall. See the Avalanche Canada Spring Conditions Guide for detailed information on typical spring scenarios.

Avalanche Summary

Increasing temperatures in the next weeks will lead to increased avalanche activity where and cornice failures where snow remains; especially during the hottest parts of the day, or during periods of rain.

Confidence

Problems

Loose Wet

An icon showing Loose Wet

With rising temperatures forecast over the coming weeks, expect to see an increase in loose wet activity, especially during the heat of the day or periods of rain.

  • Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.
  • Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 1.5

Deep Persistent Slabs

An icon showing Deep Persistent Slabs

Deep layers are still responsive to large triggers (think cornices or rain) on high north faces. Though triggering this layer is unlikely, it's not impossible as evidenced by sporadic large avalanches.

  • Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices which could trigger the deep persistent slab.

Aspects: North.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: May 9th, 2019 4:00PM