Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 10th, 2019 4:00PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Deep Persistent Slabs.

Marcus Waring, Parks Canada

Waterton Lakes.

Lingering uncertainty about the ability to trigger deep persistent weak layers requires a cautious approach to terrain. Avoid thick to thin snowpack transitions, and have a healthy respect for what is above you.

Summary

Weather Forecast

FRIDAY A mix of sun and cloud with Moderate SW wind. Alpine temperature inversion with a high of +2 at 2000m.SATURDAY Mostly Sunny with Light West Winds. Freezing Level rising to 2500m.SUNDAY Sunny. Calm Winds. Freezing levels 3000m

Snowpack Summary

The Alpine remains wind affected with 20-30cm new wind slabs above many layers of old wind slab. High daytime freezing levels have led to significant settlement and moist snow at tree line and below. At all elevations the mid snowpack is well settled however the bottom remains facetted and weak. Snow cover is variable (160cm average at treeline).

Avalanche Summary

Size 1 Loose Wet debris observed along the Akamina Parkway between 1800 and 2000m on NE and SE aspects.

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain on Saturday

Problems

Wind Slabs

Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.If triggered the wind slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

There has not been much recent activity on the facets deep in the snowpack, but there is still the possibility to trigger them in shallow areas.

Avoid steep convexities or areas with a thin or variable snowpack.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Jan 13th, 2019 4:00PM