Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 30th, 2012 4:00PM

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

snow safety, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

The new snow will bond quickly, but watch for touchy wind slabs in exposed areas, especially around ridge crests and slopes with buried sun crusts. 10-20cm more is expected late Saturday afternoon into Sunday morning. SH

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain on Saturday

Problems

Wind Slabs

10-30 cm over the last 24 hours has formed wind slabs in exposed areas. The Lake Louise area seems to have gotten the most snow, and widespread activity to sz. 2 was reported. Steep slopes with sun crust will have the poorest bond to this new snow.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Persistent Slabs

The Valentines surface hoar layer is down 70-150cm. It is harder to initiate, but as people start to venture into bigger terrain, the consequences of triggering will be large if you find the sweet spot. Thin areas will be the most susceptible.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Mar 31st, 2012 4:00PM