Avalanche Forecast

Issued: May 6th, 2013 8:16AM

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 Persistent Slabs.

danyelle magnan, Parks Canada

Glacier.

It feels like summer in the valley, but avalanche conditions continue in the mountains. Expect avalanche danger to increase to HIGH with daytime warming. Bulletins may be updated if conditions change.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Another hot, sunny day is expected today. On Tuesday and Wed a weak disturbance will bring scattered cloud and showers. Another ridge is expected to build later on Thursday bringing back clear skiers. Strong diurnal fluctuations are expected throughout the week, with alpine temps reaching double digits.

Snowpack Summary

We are experiencing unseasonably warm temperatures with no overnight freeze at treeline and above. The snowpack is isothermal and rapidly loses strength during the day. Crusts from April and possibly late March are providing bed surfaces for avalanches down 50cm to 1m. These slabs are touchy; triggered by small cornice chunks or loose sluffs.

Avalanche Summary

Widespread solar triggered avalanche activity has been occurring throughout the day. Loose avalanches to size 2.5 have been observed. Numerous slab avalanches occurred yesterday, with several size 3's running to the end of the paths or into fans. These are failing down 50-100cm and some with wide propagations.

Confidence

Problems

Loose Wet

The spring avalanche cycle will continue as long as the sun lasts. Expect loose avalanches at all elevations. With little to no overnight freeze they will start when the sun hits the slopes.

Avoid exposure to sun exposed slopes.Travel early on frozen crusts before the heat of the day.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Very Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Persistent Slabs

Large slab avalanches have been occurring. Small cornice falls and loose avalanches are triggering slabs that are propagating widely and running well down the avalanche paths and into fans.

Be aware of the potential for wide propagations.Be aware of the potential for large, deep avalanches.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

2 - 4

Valid until: May 7th, 2013 8:00AM