Avalanche forecast

Kananaskis

Dec 19 – 21, 2023Avalanche Canada
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Fri
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Generally a weak snowpack. Approach all features with care and take the time to dig and look at the snow layers.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    Wind slabs/ old windslabs are present in almost all lee and cross-loaded features. Human triggering is still a concern.

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1.5–3

    Be mindful of the weak layers towards the base of the snowpack. Thin rocky areas may propagate out to thicker areas.

Confidence

Moderate

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches observed or reported today

Snowpack Summary

The forecasting crew went to Burstall Pass today and found the height of snow to average around 60cm with wind slabs covering most of the landscape. Halfway up the snowpack, there is a significant ice crust which produced moderate test results. The bottom half of the snowpack is mostly made up of facets and depth hoar. Generally speaking, we have a below than average snowpack which is fairly weak.

Weather Summary

Wednesday will bring mostly a cloudy day with some light flurries and warm temperatures. Freezing level is expected to be at 2000m. Winds are expected to be up to 40km/hr from the West in the alpine.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

Terrain and Travel Advice

  • Approach lee and cross-loaded slopes with caution.
  • Avoid rock outcroppings, convexities, and anywhere the snowpack is thin and/or variable.
  • Watch for areas of hard wind slab on alpine features.

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