Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 19th, 2018 3:00PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is moderate. Known problems include Loose Wet and Cornices.

michael.olsthoorn, Alberta Parks

Kananaskis.

Start early and finish early. Expect the avalanche hazard to increase to HIGH near mid day with solar radiation, especially on solar aspects.

Summary

Confidence

Weather Forecast

Friday is forecast to bring a mix of sun and cloud and an alpine temperature of -1c. Winds are to be 25km/h from the SW.

Avalanche Summary

Several size 2 on solar aspects. One size 3 in the Goat Range was observed on an East aspects in the alpine. Expect more activity and cornice failures when the sun comes out.Â The cornices are large and can trigger deeper slabs.

Snowpack Summary

Spring time is here. Expect cool temperatures and a supportive crust below 2150m first thing in the morning. Expect the snow to become moist on solar aspects by mid day with the avalanche hazard increasing. Good skiing along with dry snow can still be found on North aspects and shady slopes above 2000m.

Problems

Loose Wet

The hazard will increase by mid day, especially on solar aspects.

Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1.5 - 2.5

Cornices

Cornices are large and looming and become weak with daytime heating. They may collapse and trigger an avalanche on the underlying slopes and the deeper layers.

Cornices become weak with daytime heating, so travel early on exposed slopes.Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices which could easily trigger persistent slabs.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1.5 - 3

Valid until: Apr 20th, 2018 2:00PM