Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Apr 3rd, 2012–Apr 4th, 2012

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: Little Yoho.

Although it may seem like spring is here, the winter snowpack has not yet gone through a serious melt freeze. Large avalanches and close calls have been reported all week. See photo of West Bowl from today. It is still time to place safe!

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

The storm snow from the last few days has been blown into wind slabs and there are very large cornices. These slabs can be easily triggered and may result in an avalanche stepping down to deeper weaknesses.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

The Valentines surface hoar layer and the weak basal depth hoar have both been sliding layers for large avalanches over the last three days. Steep unsupported slopes, thin rocky areas and steep solar aspects are the most likely areas to trigger.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size: 2 - 4