Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 22nd, 2019 4:00PM

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

snow safety, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Watch for intense outbreaks of sun and wet snowpack areas. Reduce your risk by getting out early and finishing early, while the snowpack is still cold.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Cold Friday night, then any possible combination of warm, sun, cloud, rain and snow. Not much of anything is expected, so be aware if it is sunny or rainy for a while where you are that conditions may be worsening.

Snowpack Summary

We are moving towards a spring snowpack with isothermal releases in thin areas and on sun-exposed slopes. Risk is greatly reduced by finishing the day early before things heat up.

Avalanche Summary

Loose wet avalanches were noted again today.Â

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain

Problems

Loose Wet

Rapidly warming daytime temperatures and high solar inputs are causing loose wet avalanches to start by mid morning. Some of these are running long distances or triggering slabs along the way. Avoid exposure to these slopes when they heat up.

Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2.5

Wet Slabs

Extended warm temperatures, solar radiation and buried weak layers are producing wet slab avalanches in all locations except high alpine, north (shady) aspects. The simple answer is to avoid all avalanche terrain until it cools and the snow freezes.

Travel early before the heat of the day, and avoid big slopes.Use extra caution on solar slopes or if the snow is moist or wet.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2.5

Valid until: Mar 23rd, 2019 4:00PM