Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 7th, 2012 8:00AM

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

Parks Canada Catherine Brown, Parks Canada

Touchy windslabs, cornice falls and solar triggered loose avalanches are the main concerns today.

Summary

Problems

Loose Dry

An icon showing Loose Dry
Watch for changing surface conditions when slopes start receiving sun. As the snowpack warms loose avalanches are possible, especially on steep slopes. Rocky outcrops are prime trigger spots. Limit your exposure to slopes adjacent to hot spots.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Cornices

An icon showing Cornices
Large cornices exist on many ridges in the park. We have observed them failing recently in part due to the solar warming. Large cornice falls can trigger deep weak layers. Use extra caution on corniced ridges, they can fail well back from the ridge.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs
Wind slabs formed on lee slopes during the last storm period due to strong southerly winds. Recent NE winds have also loaded southerly slopes. Use caution on steep, unsupported features in the alpine near ridge-crests and on cross-loaded features.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Feb 8th, 2012 8:00AM