Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jul 12th, 2017 4:00PM

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

ian jackson, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Summer conditions are here, but keep the deep persistent weak layer in the back of your mind if you are considering venturing into steep alpine snowy terrain!

Summary

Weather Forecast

Some helpful weather links:Remote weather stations in Banff, Yoho & Kootenay - Real time, raw, actual weather data.Avalanche Canada Mountain Weather Forecast - Good for getting an overview of the major weather systems.SpotWx - Good for a localized forecastEnvironment Canada Yoho forecast - Simplified valley bottom forecast for Lake Louise area.

Snowpack Summary

The deep persistent weakness still exists and has been sporadically active on hot days in high alpine terrain. This will be the big thing to consider when deciding whether to get on the bigger snow and ice routes.

Avalanche Summary

In general, avalanche hazard will be greatest during hot sunny days or warm rain. This has the potential to trigger smaller loose wet avalanches and larger wet slab avalanches on the basal weak layer. For current avalanche activity and observations, check out the Mountain Conditions Report

Confidence

Problems

Loose Wet

For the most part, the snowpack has settled into a summer-like state, but loose wet avalanches are still possible on hot days in steep alpine terrain.

Avoid sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong, especially if snow is moist or wet.Watch for clues, like sluffing off of cliffs, that the snowpack is warming up.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

The deep persistent layer has still been sporadically reactive on hot days in high alpine terrain. Think twice about committing to the big faces unless you have a very good freeze.

Travel early before the heat of the day melts surface crusts, and avoid big slopes in the afternoon.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Valid until: Jul 13th, 2017 4:00PM