Avalanche forecast

Banff Yoho Kootenay

Dec 13 – 14, 2014Parks Canada
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Sun
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Cooler temperatures will lock down the snowpack below treeline this weekend. Be cautious on higher elevation features where the basal layers can be triggered.  Ski quality is less than ideal, but its a good forecast for ice climbers. SH

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2
    Strong southwest winds have stripped windward areas and created fresh wind slabs in lee terrain in the alpine. These wind slabs will be reactive in the short term.

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    2–3
    Snowpack tests show that the weak facets at the base of the snowpack continue to be a concern.

Weather Forecast

The forecast is for a cooling trend throughout the weekend with temperatures staying below freezing starting Saturday. Winds will die down and stay light for the next 3 days. There is the possibility of a couple cm of snow Friday night and Sat. but don't expect much! Beyond that no significant snow is in the short, mid or long range forecasts.

Snowpack Summary

Strong SW winds have stripped windward aspects and created wind slabs in lee terrain in the alpine. Mild temperatures have promoted settlement in upper pack, but lower basal rain crust/facets at treeline and in the alpine remain weak. Warm temps and rain below treeline have promoted rapid settlement and a decrease in snow depths.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches observed today.

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain on Saturday

Regions covered