Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 9th, 2012 8:12AM

The alpine rating is considerable, the treeline rating is considerable, and the below treeline rating is considerable. Known problems include Storm Slabs, Wind Slabs and Persistent Slabs.

Eric Dafoe, Parks Canada

Glacier.

Warm temperatures and freezing levels to 2000 m. are forecast for today. A system will spread light precipitation this afternoon. Moderate precipitation is on tap overnight and for Saturday. Danger levels will rise with rapid temperature increase.

Summary

Problems

Storm Slabs

The storm slab is settling into a cohesive slab with several low density weaknesses still evident in the upper 70cm. Larger triggers such as skiers dropping cliffs, cornice fall or even large tree bombs have triggered these slabs in recent days.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Wind Slabs

Consistent strong S winds are producing wind slabs and deep drifts on open slopes at ridgetop elevations. Expect wind slabs just below ridges but look for stiffer snow well down the slope also.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Persistent Slabs

The Feb 8 surface hoar layer is 80-120cm deep. Tests show that if triggered this layer will propagate and produce large avalanches. Watch sheltered areas near treeline and N and E aspects well below treeline in creek drainages and moraines.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Mar 10th, 2012 8:00AM