Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 15th, 2019 4:00PM

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

Parks Canada deryl kelly, Parks Canada

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Varied and inconsistent results from snowpack tests. Very little evidence of an active weakness in the snowpack, though there are a number of distinct layers.

Forecasted new snow not expected to overload deep instabilities.

Summary

Weather Forecast

A weak ridge is prevalent over BC and Alberta. Sun and cloud expected in the forecast area with precipitation moving into BC late this afternoon. Isolated flurries will reach the Rockies Monday, though actual load uncertain right now.

For more details: Mountain Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

The top 30cm remains unconsolidated except where exposed to wind and soft slabs may have been formed. The snow depth is variable at all elevations. There is a crust/facet layer distributed through the region in the mid-pack with mixed reactivity and a weak basal facet/depth hoar layer at the base of the pack.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches observed or reported. Add or View your weekend trip reports here at the CAA's Mountain Information Network

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Monday

Problems

Deep Persistent Slabs

An icon showing Deep Persistent Slabs

A few large avalanches were observed during last cycle early in December and we suspect it was on this layer.

  • Dig down to find and test weak layers before committing to a line.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2.5

Valid until: Dec 16th, 2019 4:00PM