Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 11th, 2013 4:00PM

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

Lisa Paulson, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Light flurries and moderate W winds are forecasted for the next few days.Â There is very little snow left for transport so the hazard will not be significantly affected.Â Temperatures will become warmer through the week and by Saturday alpine temperatures will be in the -7C range.

Snowpack Summary

There is 50-70 cm of snow at tree line which is generally weak, and facetted, however in some areas the mid-pack is supportive enough to allow some tentative turns. Some fresh wind slabs exist in lee alpine terrain which may be reactive to skier triggering. The October crust is 10-20 cm from ground and producing mod-hard results with comp. test.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanche activity observed in the last several days.

Confidence

Problems

Wind Slabs

This layer is a concern in isolated areas loaded by wind. These slabs sit on a weak facetted base. There has been no recent natural avalanches on this layer but it still may be triggered by skiers or climbers.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 12th, 2013 4:00PM