Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 24th, 2019 4:00PM

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

aaron beardmore, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Avalanche danger relates directly to daytime warming and solar radiation. Although cloudy skies are forecasted tomorrow, its still wise to get an early start and early finish.

Summary

Weather Forecast

It is expected to be cloudy throughout Monday with light precip starting about noon (if the precip comes as rain be very wary). Temperature will be near zero. Minimal solar input is expected, however localized solar input (un-forecasted) could elevate the danger rating. Approx 10-15cm is expected on Tuesday with sub zero temps.

Snowpack Summary

Solar aspects have a melt freeze crust which is deteriorating with daytime warming. Dry snow is still found on high north aspects. Many areas exhibit a cohesive midpack over the basal facets, while other thin areas have weak facets to the ground.

Avalanche Summary

No avalanches observed or reported.

Confidence

Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain on Monday

Problems

Loose Wet

The amount of loose wet avalanche activity is related to the amount of solar input. The forecast does not indicate solar input on Monday, however forecasters are uncertain. Un-forecasted direct solar input will increase the avalanche danger.

Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.Travel early before the heat of the day, minimize exposure to overhead avalanche terrain.

Aspects: East, South East, South, South West, West.

Elevations: Treeline, Below Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Persistent Slabs

There has been very little recent evidence of an avalanche on high North aspects, however the layer can still be found in isolated areas. It is likely that this problem will be removed after another day without supporting evidence.

Aspects: North, North East, North West.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Mar 25th, 2019 4:00PM