Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 29th, 2013 9:01AM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs.

pgoddard, Avalanche Canada

South Rockies.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather is uncertain

Weather Forecast

Wednesday: Strong NW winds. Alpine temperature near -10. Very light snow.Thursday: Moderate to strong NW winds. Alpine temperature near -7. Very light snow.Friday: Light SW winds. Alpine temperature near -7. Very light snow.

Avalanche Summary

A few loose dry and soft slab avalanches to size 1.5 have been triggered naturally and by skiers over the last couple of days.

Snowpack Summary

Recent snowfall amounts and winds have been variable across the region. Around 15-35 cm snow overlies old surfaces buried on Jan 23. Preserved surface hoar up to 21 mm in size has been found in the North Elk Valley, buried by about 15 cm of snow. It doesn't appear to be a widespread layer, but could be a localized problem once buried with further snowfall. The most wind-affected areas, including Crowsnest Pass and Harvey Pass, have scoured south and west-facing slopes. Wind slabs may be found on lee slopes.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs may be found behind ridges, ribs and gully walls. Storm slabs and loose dry avalanches may be encountered in terrain not affected by wind.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>Stay off recent wind loaded areas until the slope has had a chance to stabilize.>Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind loaded snow.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Valid until: Jan 30th, 2013 2:00PM