Avalanche forecast

Banff Yoho Kootenay

Feb 12 – 13, 2022
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low

Highlights

Watch for solar crusts, may affect ski quality on South aspects. Clear skies and continued solar input will keep the hazard elevated for the next couple of days up high.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    Previous strong winds from the W-NW have developed wind slabs in lee areas at treeline and above. These have been relatively stubborn but keep them in mind in steep terrain. New cornice development has also been observed.

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    1–2

    The Jan 30 layer exists as surface hoar in sheltered areas and sun crust on steep southerly aspects 20 to 30cm down. We have observed few avalanches on this interface so far. Cooler temps following the warm up on Thursday should help this bond.

Weather Forecast

The upper ridge will continue top build tonight and through tomorrow, this will bring seasonable temperatures and clear skies for the next couple of days.

Snowpack Summary

Extensive wind effect in exposed areas above treeline, with wind slabs in lee areas at treeline and in the alpine. Jan 30 surface hoar and sun crust is down 20-30 cm and is still reactive in tests. Crusts can be found too 2000m, above this crusts continue on solar aspects. Shallow snowpack areas remain weak and faceted.

Avalanche Summary

No new natural avalanches reported or observed

Confidence

Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain

Regions covered