Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 25th, 2017 4:00PM

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

grant statham, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Sometimes the snowpack is just so weak and slow to change, that you need to continually resist the temptation to step-out into more exciting terrain. This is one of those winters where patience is the most important skill you can have.

Summary

Weather Forecast

There is no new snow in the near-term weather forecast, as a ridge of high pressure remains stationary over the central rockies. Some cloud cover may appear, but no precipitation is expected and temperatures on Thursday will range from -5 to -10 and light NW winds.

Snowpack Summary

In many areas, the surface snow remain unaffected by wind and overlies a generally weak and facetted mid-pack and base - particularly in the Lake Louise area and on the east side of Hwy 93 north. Closer to the divide, the deeper snowpacks are stronger and more supportive. Surface hoar up to 10mm continues to grow on the snow surface.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches reported today in this region, but we did see a 24-hr old size 2.5 on Mt. Ogden in Little Yoho region (2600 m). Natural avalanche activity has abated, but we continue to feel that human triggering is likely.

Confidence

Problems

Deep Persistent Slabs

Because the snowpack is so weak, we don't trust any avalanche starting zones. Avoid steep areas where avalanches can start, and think carefully if you cross tracks or run out zones. Continued conservative choices will remain important for some time.

Be aware of thin areas that may propogate to deeper instabilites.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Jan 26th, 2017 4:00PM