Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 16th, 2015 8:14AM

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

esharp, Avalanche Canada

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

Summary

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.

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

Valid until: Jan 17th, 2015 2:00PM