Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 26th, 2014 8:53AM

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

jeremy.mackenzie, Alberta Parks

Kananaskis.

A major storm is expected to hit the region over the next few days. Heavy snowfall and strong winds will spike the avalanche hazard. Be extremely cautious in avalanche terrain.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain

Weather Forecast

A major weather event is approaching that could bring 70cm or more over the next couple of days. Winds will be strong from the SW and temperatures will be mild on Thursday, but falling Friday.

Avalanche Summary

Nothing new observed, but observations were extremely limited.

Snowpack Summary

An additional 5 to 10cm of new snow fell through the day, but a significant storm is approaching. The November rain crust is found about 20 to 30cm off the ground and will be a layer to be aware of. Storm slab development is ongoing and will also be a significant concern over the next several days.

Problems

Storm Slabs

Up to 35cm of snow is expected over the next 24hrs with more to follow. Winds will be strong from the SW. This will cause rapid storm slab development in lee and cross-loaded terrain.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>Early season hazards such as rocks, trees and stumps are still visible.>Avoid freshly wind loaded features.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

2 - 4

Loose Dry

Lots of snow to come in the next few days. This will lead to widespread sluffing, especially in steep terrain at all elevations.

Be cautious of sluffing in steep terrain.>Avoid travelling on ledges and cliffs where sluffing may have severe consequences.>The new snow will requires several days to settle and stabilize.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Nov 27th, 2014 2:00PM