Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 13th, 2012 5:54PM

The alpine rating is considerable, the treeline rating is considerable, and the below treeline rating is moderate. Known problems include Loose Wet and Persistent Slabs.

Jon Stuart-Smith, Parks Canada

Waterton Lakes.

Avalanche danger is changing quickly with springtime weather unpredictability. More precip forecast for Sat afternoon so keep a close eye on freezing level and the actual amount and type of precipitation.

Summary

Problems

Loose Wet

Although the storm on Thur gave less precip than forecast, freezing level has not been below ridgetop since Wed. With these unpredictable weather forecasts, watch conditions carefully. Avalanche danger will increase with precip, wind or solar heating

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Persistent Slabs

Above about 2000m, numerous crust created from daytime heating are lingering in the upper snowpack. Avalanches that start in surface layers could step down to these interfaces, especially at higher elevations.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Apr 16th, 2012 4:00PM