Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 11th, 2012 4:00PM

The alpine rating is considerable, the treeline rating is considerable, and the below treeline rating is considerable. Known problems include Wind Slabs, Deep Persistent Slabs and Loose Wet.

Aaron Beardmore, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Temps will remain at or above 0 at valley bottom tomorrow with the possibility of rain. Up to 25cm of snow is expected at high elevations starting tomorrow midday. The danger rating will rise until the new snow has a chance to settle.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain on Thursday

Problems

Wind Slabs

Up to 30cm of new snow and accompanying wind will create fresh windslabs at higher elevations by Friday. These windslabs will likely settle quickly, due to the warm temperatures. The layer will be most active just after the storm.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Deep Persistent Slabs

The Feb 12 surface hoar is still causing isolated slides. Areas of most concern is terrain with a weak, shallow and rocky snow-pack. In deeper snow-pack areas these layers are not as reactive. Large triggers like cornices may trigger this layer.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Loose Wet

Currently the warm temps encourage the potential for loose and wet avalanches. As the temps cool off to below 0, the danger of loose wet avalanches decreases significantly. Pay attention to temps at your location and anticipate temps far above you.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Apr 12th, 2012 4:00PM