Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 14th, 2013 4:00PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Loose Dry.

aaron beardmore, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Summary

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

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

Valid until: Apr 15th, 2013 4:00PM