Avalanche forecast

Banff Yoho Kootenay

Jan 12 – 13, 2014Parks Canada
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Archived · expired 13 years ago

Avalanche danger

Sun
Mon
Alpine
4 · High
Treeline
4 · High
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

An avalanche cycle is occurring right now as 30-40cm of storm snow and strong winds have overloaded the weak snowpack. The winds are raking the mountains, and widespread avalanche activity was observed today. The cycle continues through Monday.

Avalanche problems

  • Storm Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–3
    20-40 cm of storm snow has fallen across the forecast region, creating unstable snow in the surface layers from both new snow and wind. Expect deep windslabs in leeward areas due to extensive wind loading.

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely - Very Likely
    Size
    2–3
    The storm has overloaded the weak and facetted snowpack, and large natural avalanches are being observed. Active deep persistent slab conditions like this are dangerous; avoid avalanche terrain for the next few days - time for good snow in the trees.

Weather Forecast

The storm pattern will continue with a slight break Saturday night and Sunday morning.  The models are showing another 10-15 cm of snow by Monday, combined with very strong winds from the west.  Temperatures will remain cool, with Sunday's high being -11.

Snowpack Summary

20-40 of storm snow has fallen across the forecast region over the last 36-hours, combined with a warming trend and strong to extreme winds from the SW. Widespread windslabs exist in all open areas, overlying a weak and facetted snowpack  Expect leeward areas to have upwards of 100cm of drifted windslabs.

Avalanche Summary

Widespread avalanche activity today up to size 3 including both Bourgeau Left and Right waterfalls over the climbs, Healy Creek, Cascade Mountain, Corral Creek and Eagle Basin. This avalanche activity is forecast to continue on Sunday.

Confidence

Regions covered