Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 10th, 2021 4:00PM

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

Aaron Beardmore,

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While conditions are generally improving (despite the cold temps) forecasters seem to receive a report of a random large avalanche every couple of days. Uncertainty remains so keep this on your mind when making decisions.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Thursday still appears to be the coldest day, and then a slow climb back to what is reasonable. Still chilly. The wind will remain in the moderate range from the West and creep into high early on Friday. It will remain relatively clear on Thurs and Fri.

Snowpack Summary

Previous winds from all directions have redistributed the recent 30-60cm of low density storm snow into wind slab in the alpine. In sheltered areas, the latest storm snow remains somewhat low density. Buried sun crust and facets on steep south aspects. Treeline snow depths range from 150-220cm.

Avalanche Summary

Lake Louise ski patrol reported seeing a size 2.5 avalanche below the Sickle on Mt. Victoria. Details were hard to observe but the fracture line looked to be about 100cm deep. Also of note, last week there were three avalanches up to size 1.5 reported on south aspects below treeline.

Confidence

Wind speed and direction is uncertain on Saturday

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs

Wind slabs recently formed from variable winds are still a concern, but are becoming stubborn with the cold temperatures. Local alpine winds may elevate the hazard in areas where loose snow is available for transport.

  • Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading has created wind slabs.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2.5

Valid until: Feb 11th, 2021 4:00PM