Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 25th, 2014 8:31AM

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

jlammers, Avalanche Canada

South Rockies.

Summary

Confidence

Good

Weather Forecast

Sunday: Very light snowfall Sunday morning with some clearing by the afternoon / Light northerly winds / Freezing level at 900mMonday: Mainly clear skies / Light northerly winds / Freezing level at surfaceTuesday: Mix of sun and cloud / Light northwest winds / Freezing level at surface

Avalanche Summary

On Friday solar heating triggered numerous loose wet avalanches on steep, south-facing alpine terrain. (thanks to Jason H for the observations!) No other recent activity was reported.

Snowpack Summary

Light amounts of new snow overlie a variety of surfaces which include old, stubborn wind slabs in exposed terrain or well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas. Sun-exposed slopes are now sporting a melt-freeze crust. The main concern in the region appears to be weak buried facet crystals. The facet layer, which exists in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region), was responsible for some serious close calls last week. Although activity at this interface has tapered-off, this persistent problem has potential to re-awaken with warming forecast for the next few days. Other possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.

Problems

Deep Persistent Slabs

Although unlikely, avalanches on deep persistent layers would be destructive. Avalanche activity is more likely with a heavy trigger in steep, rocky start zones with a thin or variable snow cover.

Avoid convexities or areas with a thin or variable snowpack.>Conditions are greatly improved, but be mindful that deep instabilities are still present.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely

Expected Size

2 - 4

Valid until: Jan 26th, 2014 2:00PM