Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 20th, 2011 4:06PM

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

brian webster, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Avalanche control is planned for Mounts Bourgeau and Stephen on Wednesday, December 21. Please no skiing or climbing in these areas.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Wind effect is extremely variable

Problems

Wind Slabs

Strong westerly winds today and yesterday redistributed Sundays storm snow and formed fresh wind slabs in the alpine and treeline elevations. Conservative decision making is required on wind affected slopes.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

There is still concern for riders hitting the weak spot and triggering a full depth release on basal facets. A rider triggered a size 2.5 avalanche on this layer in the Lake Louise backcountry on Sunday. See the facebook link below for pictures.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Dec 21st, 2011 4:00PM