Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 4th, 2018 3:00PM

The alpine rating is below threshold, the treeline rating is below threshold, and the below treeline rating is below threshold. Known problems include Wind Slabs.

Alberta Parks KESAdmin, Alberta Parks

Respect the unknown. Realistically, we don't know much about our snowpack so far. As the weather changes, don't make any assumptions based on previous days. Young snowpacks are notoriously unpredictable in these parts.

Summary

Confidence

-

Weather Forecast

A storm is approaching from the west. We are expecting snow to start sunday evening as flurries. By wed, some forecasts are saying 14cm at valley bottom. winds will be light, but gusty throughout this storm. Things will cool down as the system plays through. 

Avalanche Summary

Nothing new has been noted.

Snowpack Summary

The regional snowpack is still variable in terms of how much snow we have and where. Being closer to the divide, the Spray Range has the most snow by far. Our weather stations tell us we have about 70cm near the divide at treeline and only 20cm on the road. Having said that, there are layers within the snowpack that will be problematic as we get more snow, or the existing snow gets blown around. A mid October crust has been noticed, however the depth, distribution and reactivity are all uncertain. We simply haven't been able to explore very far yet. Windslabs are another problem on the radar. These are known to exist in the alpine and upper treeline areas. Small pockets are very likely to hold reactive windslabs. Ice climbers, pay attention to overhead pockets and slopes that require crossing!

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs
These exist in small pockets in the alpine. Try and limit overhead exposure, especially if the weather is changing. It may not take much change to initiate a small natural cycle. Ice climbers!!! Carry avalanche gear!!!
Avoid exposure to terrain traps where the consequences of a small avalanche could be serious.Avoid freshly wind loaded features.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Nov 5th, 2018 2:00PM