Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 8th, 2012 8:30AM

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

Parks Canada Eric Dafoe, Parks Canada

The key today is to keep the deeper weaknesses in your mind as you assess your route through the day. Caution is still advised, particularly where surface hoar will be preserved. 2000m freezing levels with periods of sun will increase danger levels.

Summary

Problems

Storm Slabs

An icon showing Storm Slabs
Since last Friday, over 1m of snow has fallen. The storm slab is settling into a cohesive slab with several low density weaknesses still evident in the upper 70cm. Some fast sluffing was observed yesterday which could trigger these weaknesses.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

2 - 3

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs
Consistent strong S winds are producing windslabs and deep drifts on open slopes at ridgetop elevations. Expect windslabs just below ridges but look for stiffer snow well down the slope also.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Persistent Slabs

An icon showing Persistent Slabs
The Feb 8 surface hoar layer is 1-1.5m deep. Tests show that if triggered this layer will propagate and produce large avalanches. Watch sheltered areas near treeline and N and E aspects well below treeline in creek drainages and morraines.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Mar 9th, 2012 8:00AM