Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 3rd, 2014 3:00PM

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

jeremy.mackenzie, Alberta Parks

Kananaskis.

Large and steep alpine features still demand respect due to the persistent basal weakness. Otherwise travel conditions are fast and easy. Cold temperatures will persist, so be prepared for the consequences of even a minor emergency.

Summary

Confidence

Good

Weather Forecast

The cold temperatures will persist as highs of only -27C are expected in the alpine on Tuesday. Winds will be light from the north with a few clouds in the sky. No precipitation is expected for at least the next 5 days.

Avalanche Summary

Nothing new.

Snowpack Summary

Trace to 2cm of new snow in past 24hrs. Sun crusts are found on all solar aspects at all elevations, and have been remaining frozen all day due to cold temperatures. Alpine and treeline areas exhibit an array of wind slabs, some of which are extremely dense. Basal weaknesses remain.

Problems

Deep Persistent Slabs

The density of the slabs and their bridging effect, are making it very hard to trigger an avalanche on the basal weakness. It is still present, and potentially reactive in the right terrain. Probability is going down, but consequences remain high.

Be aware of the potential for full depth avalanches due to deeply buried weak layers.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

3 - 6

Valid until: Feb 4th, 2014 2:00PM