Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 24th, 2013 9:14AM

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

tim haggarty, Parks Canada

Waterton Lakes.

Thin coverage over rocks and stumps remains a significant hazard. Do not let these conditions push you into areas where persistent slabs can be triggered. The best skiing can be found on supportive, modest-angled slopes near treeline-Merry Christmas!

Summary

Weather Forecast

West winds will continue. Expect some sunny periods Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday with 5cm of precipitation expected for Thursday. Temperatures will be warm for the period however Thursday and Friday look to be very warm. Sun or Precipitation during this warm period could have negative effects on both snow stability and ski quality.

Snowpack Summary

10 to 15 cm of snow from the last 72 hours with near freezing temperatures, and significant W winds, have led to the formation of thin and soft storm slabs above the previous wind scoured and hardened surfaces. The sugary Faceted Crystals associated with the November Crusts are buried 50 to 70 cm presenting a weak layer that remains of interest.

Avalanche Summary

One significant wind slab released on the steep wind loaded face above Wall Lake on Saturday.

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain

Problems

Storm Slabs

Thin and soft slabs formed with recent snow and warm temperatures can be found almost everywhere. With time, the forecast West Winds will likely redistribute this snow to form wind slabs near ridgelines and in gully features.

Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and roll-overs.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Persistent Slabs

Weak snow associated with crusts formed in Mid and early November can be found down about 70cm. This seems to be less significant on Southerly aspects. Triggering planar slopes from thin areas remains a possibility to consider.

Dig down to find and test weak layers before committing to a line.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Dec 27th, 2013 4:00PM