Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 8th, 2013 4:00PM

The alpine rating is high, the treeline rating is high, and the below treeline rating is considerable. Known problems include Storm Slabs.

aaron beardmore, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

STORM INCOMING. Be cautious as the Jan 6th layer is overloaded with up to 40cm of snow in the alpine. Consequently, expect a large avalanche cycle to ensue. Valley bottom run-outs could be effected.

Summary

Weather Forecast

We are expecting up to 40cm of new snow in the alpine starting late tonight. The danger rating will climb to, and remain at, "HIGH" throughout the storm period. Westerly flow will accompany the precip. These weather factors WILL contribute to storm slab development.

Snowpack Summary

In the Sunshine Area approximately 15cm of snow fell last night. This has refreshed the ski quality, however, it has added more load to the Jan 6th layer. Although we have not reached a critical threshold as of today, it is important to remember that the incoming storm track will add significant load and this layer will "wake up", likely Weds.

Avalanche Summary

Avalanche 1: Natural trigger, Size 2, across from Vermillion slide path in Kootenay National Park. South aspect. 50m across and approximately 40cm deep. From steep and almost un-skiable terrain. It occurred within the last 24 hours.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Wednesday

Problems

Storm Slabs

The incoming storm will dump up to 40cm at high elevations, approx 25cm at tree-line. This will provide the load necessary to make traveling in avalanche terrain something to avoid until the storm slabs have a chance to settle.

Avoid avalanche terrain during periods of heavy loading from new snow and wind.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely - Very Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Valid until: Jan 9th, 2013 4:00PM