Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 3rd, 2015 3:00PM

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

matt.mueller, Alberta Parks

Kananaskis.

At this point snowfall amounts could be up to 35cm. It looks the exact path of the up slope could drift either way. Stay tuned, and be prepared for the hazard to rise accordingly.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain

Weather Forecast

Snow, heavy at times for tomorrow. Forecasts vary, but we can hopefully expect anywhere from 25-35cm's. The really good news is that freezing levels will drop before the storm arrive. Valley bottom tonight, and 1800m tomorrow. The winds will be enough to form storm slabs. Mostly light winds are expected, but gusts will reach into the moderate range. The direction will be variable pre-storm, but settle down to an easterly flow by late afternoon. Alpine temps will hopefully reach -3.

Avalanche Summary

Nothing new today

Snowpack Summary

Up to 2200m the snowpack has recovered from the extended thaw last week. Crusts are prevalent all the way up to the alpine right now. The alpine region reportedly has some good skiing in sheltered north aspects. Windslabs are present in specific areas 2400m and above.

Problems

Loose Dry

In many areas this new snow will sit on a crust. Initial bonding will be poor. Steep gullies will be especially problematic.

Be very cautious with gully features.>The new snow will require several days to settle and stabilize.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Storm Slabs

These new storm slabs will combine with the existing windslabs and create a wide spread avalanche problem. Watch for localized wind loading patterns and assess wind loaded areas carefully.

Avoid freshly wind loaded features.>Avoid steep lee and cross-loaded features>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Deep Persistent Slabs

There is a chance this deep layer could wake up with the very rapid loading pattern expected tomorrow.

Minimize exposure during periods of heavy loading from new snow, wind.>Avoid convexities or areas with a thin or variable snowpack.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 5

Valid until: Apr 4th, 2015 2:00PM