Avalanche Forecast

Low - Uncertainty is due to the limited number of field observations.

THURSDAY NIGHT: Snow; 5-10 cm / Strong, southwesterly winds / Low of -7 / Freezing level 1300 m.

FRIDAY: Mostly cloudy with isolated flurries; 0-3 cm. / Strong, southwesterly winds / High of -6 / Freezing level lowering to 700 m.

SATURDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Strong, southerly winds / High of -3 / Freezing level 1300 m.

SUNDAY: Snow; 15-20 cm / Strong, southwesterly winds / High of 1 / Freezing level 1500 m.

Although no avalanches have been reported, a natural avalanche cycle likely occurred at upper elevations in the Pine Pass area today.

There have been no reports of avalanches on persistent weak layers this season, although reports are limited, and we strongly encourage people to share observations on the Mountain Information Network. 

The Pine Pass area received up to 80 cm of recent snow with strong southwesterly winds and warm temperatures. All of these factors contribute to the formation of fresh storm slabs, especially at treeline and above.

The southern portion of the region received 15-30 cm from the recent storm which combined with the strong southwesterly winds is also enough snow to form fresh storm slabs reactive to human triggers.

Recent observations suggest treeline snow depths are around 80-140 cm with very little snow below 1400 m in much of the region except for the pine pass area which now has enough snow below treeline for avalanching.

  A series of storms over the past few weeks delivered about 40-80 cm of snow, which sits above an early season crust(s). Reports indicate the snow has generally bonded well to the early season crusts. Exceptions may be shallow alpine slopes along the eastern side of the Rockies towards Jasper.

• Give the new snow time to settle and stabilize before pushing into bigger terrain.
• Watch for signs of instability like whumpfing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks or recent avalanches.
• Be especially cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.
• Avoid freshly wind loaded terrain features.
• Remember that the snowpack will be significantly different at higher elevations than lower down.