Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Jan 16th, 2015–Jan 17th, 2015

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: South Rockies.

Several weak layers are buried in the snowpack making now a good time to dig a snow profile before choosing where to ride. If you do dig - we'd love to hear what you find. Click on the pin icon to the submit to the Mountain Information Network

Confidence

Fair - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

Synopsis: The next strong front is forecast to move across the province on Sunday before a ridge of high pressure builds that looks to last for several days. Saturday: Snow starting in the evening with light accumulations, moderate southwesterly winds and freezing level at valley bottom. Sunday: Cloudy with periods of snow and light northerly winds. Monday: Mainly cloud with a few flurries and light northerly winds.

Avalanche Summary

No recent avalanche activity has been reported.

Snowpack Summary

Recent snowfall may sit above a rain crust which exists in many places up to 1900m or old, stiff wind slabs at higher elevations. 75 cm below the surface you may find a hard, thick crust that was buried in mid-December. In many places this crust is overlaid by facets and/or surface hoar. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface. Closer to the ground a crust/facet interface that formed in November seems to be dormant for the time being.

Avalanche Problems

Persistent Slabs

A buried persistent weakness, down 30-70 cm, should remain on your radar as it has the potential to produce large avalanches.

Dig down to find and test weak layers before committing to a line.>Avoid convexities or areas with a thin or variable snowpack where triggering could be more likely.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size: 2 - 4

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs may be found on a variety of slopes following recent changes in wind direction.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>Highmark or enter your line well below ridge crests to avoid wind loaded pillows.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3