Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 3rd, 2016 4:00PM

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

jonas hoke, Parks Canada

Waterton Lakes.

With spring well on it's way diurnal temperatures swings are becoming increasingly strong, plan accordingly.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Monday: A weak cold front pushes through: giving up to 10cm of snow, freezing levels approaching valley bottom, and mod-strong W wind.Tuesday: Cloudy skies, ongoing mod-strong W wind, and freezing levels to 1900m.Wednesday: Cloudy skies, scattered flurries/showers, ongoing mod-strong W wind, freezing levels rising to 2400m

Snowpack Summary

Ongoing warm temps have made the upper snowpack moist or wet on all but high north aspects, with some overnight crust recovery occurring at upper elevations only. At treeline and in the alpine the mid and lower snowpack is well settled and strong, with a series of crusts on all solar aspects. Below treeline the snowpack is isothermal.

Avalanche Summary

The widespread cycle of natural activity resulting from last weeks heavy snowfall followed by warm temps has abated. No new avalanche activity was observed today.

Confidence

Problems

Storm Slabs

Sensitivity of these storms slabs will vary depending on the underlying bed surface. Be especially cautious in areas where the new snow overlies a crust.

Avoid steep lee and cross-loaded slopesAvoid traveling on ledges and cliffs where small avalanches may have severe consequences.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Loose Wet

Watch for moist or wet surface snow - this means avalanche activity is more likely.

Travel early before the heat of the day, and avoid big slopes.Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 6th, 2016 4:00PM