Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 12th, 2017 8:00AM

The alpine rating is low, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Loose Dry.

ross campbell, Parks Canada

Glacier.

Still good quality skiing and riding to be had in shielded areas from the wind, on shady aspects.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Our persistent ridge of high pressure is finally showing signs of weakening as a weak upper low over the central interior will spread some mid and high cloud across the province . Today we can expect no precipitation, winds in the moderate range from the SW and inverted temperatures in the Alpine.

Snowpack Summary

Surface Hoar up to 2cm in size has been observed at tree line in many drainages. The late November crusts are found down 50-80cms and are currently bonding well. The alpine has seen above freezing temps for the last several days and a thin crust can be found on solar aspects. Wind effected snow on the surface has been observed in some valleys.

Avalanche Summary

Several loose avalanches up to size 2 were observed on steep solar aspects, especially near rocky outcrops in the last few days. These avalanches have been triggered by warm alpine temps and strong solar heating.

Confidence

Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain

Problems

Loose Dry

A temperature inversion continues to bring above zero temps to the alpine. The warm temps, with a nudge from strong solar input, can cause loose avalanches on steep S and W aspects. Rock outcrops will heat up fastest with the sun's rays.

Best conditions on sheltered northerly aspects.Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 13th, 2017 8:00AM