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Avalanche Forecast

Feb 25th, 2016–Feb 26th, 2016
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: South Rockies.

Be aware of rising freezing levels. Solar input may push the hazard higher than forecast on south facing slopes. Give cornices a wide berth during these warm conditions.

Confidence

Moderate - Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain

Weather Forecast

The remnants of a Pacific frontal system should arrive in the South Rockies on Saturday afternoon bringing 2mm precipitation overnight. A stronger front should arrive on Sunday afternoon bringing a bit more precipitation, with the possibility of 5mm of rain at lower elevations and the chance of snow up high. Freezing levels are forecast to rise to 3000 metres across the south on Friday, will begin to fall on Saturday, and by Monday should be down to valley bottom overnight.  Winds are forecast  as light to moderate at ridgetop during the weekend and the passing of the Pacific frontal systems.

Avalanche Summary

No natural avalanches were reported from yesterday on the west side of the divide.  Of note though, some loose-wet avalanches were "forced" on steep south facing terrain. On the eastern slopes there were no reports of avalanches.

Snowpack Summary

Wind slabs are still being reported in the top 20cm in lee terrain. The  melt freeze crust which formed during the 2nd week of February is beginning to bond with the storm slab. This crust layer has also been reported with surface hoar and facets in some places, and is definitely a layer to keep in mind. East of the divide wind slabs should be on your radar. Cornice growth continues, and with the warming temperatures and rising freezing level may become quite fragile.

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Be alert for lurking wind slabs in lee terrain at treeline and above.
Avoid cross loaded slopes at or above treeline.>Be careful with wind loaded pockets on steep slopes below ridge crests.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 3

Cornices

Cornice growth continues.  Use caution around, under, and near cornices.
Extra caution needed around cornices with current conditions.>Give cornices a wide berth when travelling on or below ridges.>Cornices become weak with daytime heating. >

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible - Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 4