Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 24th, 2021 3:00PM

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

mkoppang, Avalanche Canada

Kananaskis.

Watch for windslabs as you move up and into Alpine terrain. Overnight on Thursday models area calling for 15-20cm of snow and strong winds. Pay close attention to the timing of the incoming storm.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Uncertainty is due to the timing of the incoming weather system. Uncertainty is due to the timing, track, & intensity of the incoming weather system.

Weather Forecast

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were observed on Wednesday by teams in the Highwood pass region.

Snowpack Summary

Over the past few days 5-20cm of snow has fallen (more towards the Highwood pass region due to recent upslope storm Tuesday eve). Strong winds have created windslabs in Alpine areas along ridgelines and into gullied terrain. These slabs are easy to find on N through E aspects. At treeline the slabs are less prominent but still can be found. The snowpack overall is starting out nicely for November with the mild temps promoting settlement and strengthening. A crust is evident below 2100m that will be worth paying attention to over the coming months. Coverage at treeline and below is still early season with lots of hazards visible.

Terrain and Travel

Approach lee and cross-loaded slopes with caution.
Watch for areas of hard wind slab on alpine features.
Winter conditions may exist in gullies, alpine bowls, and around ridgelines.
Ice climbers should be equipped with avalanche safety gear.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs dominate the landscape in the Alpine and in open areas at Treeline. These will now be buried under 5 to 10cm of fresh snow.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Nov 25th, 2021 3:00PM