Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 13th, 2015 4:08PM

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

Parks Canada deryl kelly, Parks Canada

http://www.pc.gc.ca/apps/links/goto_e.asp?destination=Any solar input on the already moist snowpack will increase the hazard over the day. Take your sunscreen and use extra caution on all classic avalanche terrain features. Be careful out there folks and enjoy the long weekend!

Summary

Weather Forecast

Forecasts are showing a clearing trend over the day Saturday. Overall it does show a slow cooling trend but the sun is packing a bigger punch these days and will likely wake up the snowpack!

Snowpack Summary

Continuing moderate to strong SW winds in the Icefields area. These are perfect transport speeds, combined with a heavier moist snowpack and a steady input of rain or wet snow has created dangerous soft slab conditions through the forecast area. This slab is sitting over multiple touchy interfaces on all aspects and elevations.

Avalanche Summary

Numerous soft slab and storm slab avalanches have been observed in the forecast region up to size 3. Avalanche control at roadside produced results to size 1 on heavily controlled slopes.

Confidence

Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain on Saturday

Problems

Persistent Slabs

An icon showing Persistent Slabs
Deep soft slabs are sitting on this reactive layer. Triggering of these slabs is possible even in low angle terrain .
Use caution in lee areas in the alpine and treeline. Recent storm snow has formed touchy slabs.Minimize exposure to sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Deep Persistent Slabs

An icon showing Deep Persistent Slabs
This layer remains a concern in isolated areas above treeline and may be triggered by large loads.
Avoid steep slopes below cornices.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Feb 14th, 2015 4:00PM