Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 13th, 2012 4:00PM

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

snow safety, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Thursdays rain event changed the snowpack below 2500m, and resulted in an avalanche cycle at treeline and below. One more day of possible light drizzle Sat. with little freeze. Regular spring conditions should prevail starting Sunday. SH

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain on Saturday

Problems

Wind Slabs

Up to 20cm of new snow will be reactive where it sits over sun crusts, as well as temperature crusts on shady asp. from high freezing levels earlier in the week. Caution is advised until the bond improves. Light snow Sat. at higher elevations.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Loose Wet

Forecasts call for light rain tomorrow at treeline and below, and wet slides will be still possible if this comes to fruition.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

Some slides occurred in the last 24 hours to 2.5 which gouged down to the basal facets during the rain. Activity will slow down as temperatures cool. Thin, steep areas and large loads such as cornice failure could possibly trigger deep weaknesses.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Apr 14th, 2012 4:00PM