Kananaskis

The avalanche hazard in the alpine has been lowered, mostly because natural activity has slowed down. Take the time to investigate the windslabs before entering ski lines.

One size 2.5 avalanche appeared to be triggered by snowshoers on the West face of Little Chester peak. The tracks were about 5m away from the avalanche. This is an example of triggerring from a thin spot.

Surface hoar continues to grow and could be a layer of concern in the future. We suspect a thin melt/freeze crust on solar aspects from warm temps and intense solar radiation. The top 30-40cm wind slabs are widespread in the Alpine and open areas at treeline. This surface wind slab was producing a moderate shear on decomposed crystals. We have an average of 170cm of snow at treeline. The November crust can be found up to 2200m and 140cm below the surface and is breaking down. There is concern for triggering avalanches from thin snowpack areas.

Friday will be a mixed bag of sun, cloud and maybe the odd flurry. Temperature will be around -6c, along with strong West winds.

https://hpfx.collab.science.gc.ca/~fsg006/productviewer/ab/table/AB_Rockies_Forecast.html

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Keep in mind that human triggering may persist as natural avalanches taper off.
• Avoid slopes that sound hollow or drum-like.
• Avoid steep terrain, including convex rolls, or areas with a thin, rocky, or variable snowpack.