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Avalanche Forecast

Jan 23rd, 2013–Jan 24th, 2013
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
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate
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
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate
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
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Regions: South Rockies.

Confidence

Fair - Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain on Thursday

Weather Forecast

Overnight and Thursday: 5-10 cms of new snow is expected to start to fall this evening and end by late morning. Winds are expected to build to strong Westerly overnight. Temperatures are forecast to drop down to about -8.0 in the alpine. A weak ridge should follow that is expected to keep most areas dry until late evening when the next moisture moves in from the West.Friday: Continued light snow with strong Westerly winds. Freezing level at valley bottoms.Saturday: Light snow with light Southwest winds and milder temperatures.

Avalanche Summary

One report of a natural size 1.5 avalanche from steep NE facing terrain.

Snowpack Summary

In general, the region has a relatively shallow, faceted, and wind-affected snowpack that is well settled with progressively stiffer and stronger snow with depth. Large surface hoar growth and surface faceting continues in sheltered and shady areas, while sun-exposed slopes have been subject to melt-freeze cycles. Open unprotected areas are highly wind-effected with scoured areas, hard wind slab, sastrugi, and delicate cornices. All of these current snow surfaces will likely provide a poor bond once buried, and will be especially concerning when and where a sufficiently deep and cohesive slab develops.

Avalanche Problems

Storm Slabs

A new storm slab is expected to develop due to the forecast new snow and wind. The new snow is not expected to bond well to the old hard surfaces. There may also be a weak layer of surface hoar or facets sandwiched between the new snow and the crusts
Avoid freshly wind loaded features.>Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Possible - Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 4