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Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Feb 16th, 2020–Feb 17th, 2020
Alpine
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable
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
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: Kananaskis.

Be on the lookout for wind effect in the alpine, otherwise good skiing in most areas.

Confidence

High -

Weather Forecast

Monday is forecast to bring a mix of sun and cloud with light to moderate winds from the West. Temperatures will rise to -10c.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were observed.

Snowpack Summary

There is up to 25cm of recent snow in Alpine areas. Winds have been variable for the last couple of days, so be on the lookout for wind slabs as you transition into the Alpine, especially lee features and cross loaded gullies. The Alpine just needs a bit more time to let those new wind slabs bond. We are approaching the time of year where the sun is strong, especially on solar aspects. The November crust/facet layer that makes up the bottom 40cm of the snow pack is still on our radar and could be triggered from thin areas or by large loads.

Terrain and Travel

  • Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and roll-overs.
  • Avoid travelling on slopes below cornices.
  • Avalanche hazard may have improved, but be mindful that deep instabilities are still present.

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Windslabs up to 30cm thick should be expected in alpine areas. Due to the variable winds of late, these slabs are being observed on all aspects. 

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible - Likely

Expected Size: 1.5 - 2.5

Deep Persistent Slabs

The weak basal layers are still a concern. 

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size: 1.5 - 3.5