Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 17th, 2023 4:00PM

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

Avalanche Canada jminifie, Avalanche Canada

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Akamina, Crowsnest North, Crowsnest South.

Wind slabs of many vintages exist in exposed terrain and could still offer an unwanted surprise. Seek out sheltered terrain to avoid the problem and for better riding opportunities in softer snow.

Summary

Confidence

High

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches have been reported in recent days though features with triggerable wind slabs likely still exist out there.

Snowpack Summary

The wind has once again blown most of the powder into wind slabs at treeline and in the alpine or scoured exposed features. A thin sun crust might be found on steep south aspects. Sheltered areas or areas where the wind has "sifted" the powder in still offer decent riding.

The middle of the snowpack is firm and well consolidated. Weak faceted grains exist near the base of the snowpack.

The average snowpack depth is 130 cm. Up to 200 cm can be found in wind-loaded areas.

Weather Summary

Friday night

Cloudy. Minor flurries. Wind from the southwest at 40 km/h. Temperature -8ËšC.

Saturday

Cloudy with sunny breaks late in the day. Flurries possible. Wind from the southwest at 40 km/h until noon then decreasing. Temperature -8ËšC.

Sunday

A mix of sun and cloud. No precipitation. Wind from the southwest 40 - 60 km/h. Temperature -7ËšC to -3ËšC.

Monday

Cloudy. 5 - 10 cm of new snow. Wind from the southwest at 20 km/h. Temperature -10ËšC to -5ËšC.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

Terrain and Travel Advice

  • Small avalanches can have serious consequences in extreme terrain. Carefully evaluate your line for wind slab hazard before you commit to it.
  • Recent wind has varied in direction so watch for wind slabs on all aspects.
  • Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs

For the most part, we are likely running out of snow to be transported at this point. However, older wind slabs can still offer a surprise if they are sitting on weaker snow. If you venture onto stiff snow at upper elevations use extra caution.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Feb 18th, 2023 4:00PM

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