Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 26th, 2019 8:00AM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Persistent Slabs.
chris gooliaff,
Parks Canada
Blue skies, holidays, and fresh snow...it will be BUSY in Rogers Pass this week. Watch for people above and below you!
A persistent slab on surface hoar, down one metre, should be on everyone's mind as they plan their day. Choose conservative lines!
Summary
Weather Forecast
Sunny this morning with increasing clouds and isolated flurries this afternoon/evening. Light SW winds at ridge-top and an alpine high of -10*C. More of the same Friday and Saturday, with sun and cloudy periods, isolated flurries, light SW winds, and alpine temps ranging from -7 to -13*C.
Snowpack Summary
Last week's metre of snow is settling into a soft slab, especially near ridge crests. A thin sun crust exists on steep solar aspects. The Dec 11th SH (5-12mm) is well preserved and is now down 90-120cm. Early season crusts still persist in the lower snowpack.
Avalanche Summary
Several natural avalanches were observed from the steep, N-facing gullies on Macdonald yesterday, all running to the top of their respective fans. No new avalanches reported from the backcountry.
Confidence
Problems
Persistent Slabs
We are entering a period of lower probability of triggering a slab, but a high consequence if you do. A 100cm slab sits on well-preserved, large surface hoar. This is a recipe for HUMAN-TRIGGERED avalanches.
- Be wary of slopes that did not previously avalanche.
- Use conservative route selection, stick to supported terrain features, avoid overhead hazards.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 27th, 2019 8:00AM
