Avalanche forecast

Banff Yoho Kootenay

Jan 9 – 10, 2013Parks Canada
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Thu
Alpine
4 · High
Treeline
4 · High
Below
3 · Considerable
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Highlights

STORM INCOMING. Be cautious as the Jan 6th layer is overloaded with up to 40cm of snow in the alpine. Consequently, expect a large avalanche cycle to ensue. Valley bottom run-outs could be effected.

Avalanche problems

  • Storm Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely - Very Likely
    Size
    1–4
    The incoming storm will dump up to 40cm at high elevations, approx 25cm at tree-line. This will provide the load necessary to make traveling in avalanche terrain something to avoid until the storm slabs have a chance to settle.

Weather Forecast

We are expecting up to 40cm of new snow in the alpine starting late tonight. The danger rating will climb to, and remain at, "HIGH" throughout the storm period. Westerly flow will accompany the precip. These weather factors WILL contribute to storm slab development.

Snowpack Summary

In the Sunshine Area approximately 15cm of snow fell last night. This has refreshed the ski quality, however, it has added more load to the Jan 6th layer. Although we have not reached a critical threshold as of today, it is important to remember that the incoming storm track will add significant load and this layer will "wake up", likely Weds.

Avalanche Summary

Avalanche 1: Natural trigger, Size 2, across from Vermillion slide path in Kootenay National Park. South aspect. 50m across and approximately 40cm deep. From steep and almost un-skiable terrain. It occurred within the last 24 hours.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Wednesday

Regions covered