Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Akamina, Bull, Crawford, Crowsnest North, Crowsnest South, Elkford East, Elkford West, Flathead, Lizard, Lizard-Flathead, Moyie, South Rockies, St. Mary.
Start your day early and watch the crust closely.
As it breaks down, reduce your exposure to avalanche terrain.
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
On Wednesday, a small wet loose avalanche (size 1.5) was reported near Fernie in the early afternoon.
No other avalanches have been observed since Monday. However, observations are very limited at this time of year.
Snowpack Summary
On northerly slopes in the alpine, there may still be around 20 cm of soft snow from earlier in the week, potentially wind affected in exposed spots. Everywhere else, it's likely there is a thick crust on the surface.
The mid/lower snowpack is well settled and strong.
Lower elevations are melting out rapidly.
Weather Summary
Thursday Night
Partly cloudy. 20 km/h east ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 1 °C. Freezing level 2500 m.
Friday
Mix of sun and clouds. 10 to 20 km/h southeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 5 °C. Freezing level (at least) 2500 m.
Saturday
Mix of sun and cloud. 10 km/h northeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 7 °C. Freezing level 3000 m.
Sunday
Mix of sun and cloud. 10 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 6 °C. Freezing level 3000 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Avoid steep, sun-exposed slopes when the air temperature is warm or when solar radiation is strong.
- Avalanche danger will increase as the surface crust breaks down.
- Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.
Avalanche Problems
Loose Wet
Wet loose avalanches will become more likely as the sun and warmth affect the snowpack. Start early, and avoid the hottest part of the day.
Aspects: East, South East, South, South West, West.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood: Likely
Expected Size: 1 - 2
Cornices
Cornices are more likely to fail during warm weather.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, North West.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible
Expected Size: 1.5 - 2.5