Avalanche forecast

Banff Yoho Kootenay

Jan 30 – 31, 2015Parks Canada
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

As we approach our annual February period of low danger at all elevations, a reminder that low danger does not mean no danger! Particularly with the kind of facetted, weak snowpack that exists - move into bigger terrain very carefully.

Avalanche problems

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    2–3
    Despite the low danger ratings, the deep snowpack remains weak. Avoidance of large open slopes with shallow, rocky areas remains a good idea.  Even in low danger there are places that should be avoided.

Weather Forecast

A westerly flow continues, with no significant systems moving through the area for the next 24-hours. Expect Friday to be sunny with some clouds, particularly late in the day. Temperatures will range from 0 to -8, and  expect 3-5 cm of snow overnight on Friday. This might just freshen up the ski quality for Saturday.

Snowpack Summary

After a period of very warm weather, the return to colder weather has improved the stability of the snowpack. A very weak base still exists, and moderate compression tests (sudden collapse) failing in depth hoar 25 cm above the ground are being observed in many locations across the parks. We remain cautious of large, open slopes above treeline.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches observed or reported today.

Confidence

Regions covered