Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 3rd, 2015 8:00AM

The alpine rating is considerable, the treeline rating is considerable, and the below treeline rating is moderate. Known problems include Storm Slabs and Persistent Slabs.

percy woods, Parks Canada

Glacier.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Warming temperatures decreasing winds and continued light snow will add to the surface storm slab through today. There will be a break in the precipitation Wednesday with Thursday bringing another pulse of Pacific moisture.

Snowpack Summary

Upwards of 40cm of storm snow sits on top of the Jan 30 surface hoar/crust layer. Expect to find the Jan 30 crust up to 2200m with firm, wind pressed snow at higher elevations. Jan 15 surface hoar layer is down 70-110cm and the December 17 is down 140-190 cm.

Avalanche Summary

Numerous avalanches occurred in the highway corridor in the size 1 to 2 range. These slides were mainly found in steep gully features.

Confidence

Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain

Problems

Storm Slabs

Storm snow will be redistributed by mod southerly winds on to alpine lee slopes and crossloaded features. This storm snow sits on a firm smooth surface especially below 2200m. Take time to assess the snowpack while approaching wind affected features.

Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Persistent Slabs

The January 15 surface hoar layer is down 70-110cm. Large triggers will be required to wake this layer however it remains possible in shallow snowpack areas or from cornice fall.

Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Feb 4th, 2015 8:00AM