Avalanche forecast

Waterton Lakes

Mar 16 – 19, 2020Parks Canada
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Archived · expired 7 years ago

Avalanche danger

Wed
Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

The weekends storm snow is settling fast but unfortunately, the snow quality is deteriorating just a quickly. Good skiing can still be found in sheltered areas but that will change as the temperature drops.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible - Likely
    Size
    1–2

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible - Likely
    Size
    1–2

    This problem is specific to Tuesday.

Weather Forecast

Tuesday: Mostly Sunny with increasing clouds in the afternoon. Light west wind. Freezing level 2000m

Wednesday: Cloudy with isolated flurries. Moderate NE wind. Freezing level valley bottom.

Thursday: Mainly cloudy with scattered flurries. Moderate NE wind. Freezing level valley bottom.

Snowpack Summary

A sun crust is developing on the surface. Waterton received 40cm of snow in the townsite & 20cm at Cameron Lake over the weekend. This storm was accompanied by easterly winds so expect reverse loading. The new snow is settling fast thanks to high daytime temperatures. The midpack is strong, though weaker basal facets still lurk in thin areas.

Avalanche Summary

Multiple natural size 1- 1.5 dry loose avalanches observed in steep alpine lee slopes on Sunday.

Confidence

Regions covered