Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Apr 14th, 2013–Apr 15th, 2013

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: Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Weather Forecast

Easterly flow will dominate the weather pattern for the next few days. Light accompanying snowfall will not add up to more than 5cm in the next 3 days. Temperatures will remain cool with freezing levels not rising above surface. The aforementioned factors will have little effect on the current danger ratings.

Snowpack Summary

We have received between 10 and 40cm of storm snow over the last four days. The amount is variable by location. Generally speaking the storm snow is bonding well, however, expect to find thin wind slabs in the alpine. These wind slabs typically overlie another 10-30cm of old storm snow that sits on top facets and sun crusts, depending on aspect.

Avalanche Summary

No avalanches have been observed or reported today.

Confidence

Wind effect is extremely variable

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Watch for isolated soft slabs in the lee of alpine features. These slabs are now hidden, since they have been buried by last nights snow fall (<10cm)

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.Test slopes before committing to them.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible - Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 2

Loose Dry

Easterly wind (reverse from the usual) and light snow fall amounts will load 'low snow' areas and create a condition for dry loose snow avalanches. This is mostly a concern for riders and climbers in gully/couloir features in the alpine.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood: Possible - Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 2