Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 1st, 2014 4:00PM

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

aaron beardmore, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Solar radiation will be a major factor over the coming days. Be mindful to stay clear of south aspects in the hottest part of the day.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Freezing levels, by some small miracle, will remain about 0 in the valley bottoms until Friday. However, a clearing trend will allow for intense solar radiation over the next few days. It will be best to avoid south aspects in the hottest part of the next few days.

Snowpack Summary

The tipping point in the stability of the snowpack has been reached. The past week's 60 cm of storm snow has settled into a slab which is reacting to natural and skier triggers with failures occurring deep in the snowpack. This situation is expected to continue through Wednesday, with extra care advised in all avalanche terrain.

Avalanche Summary

Explosive control on Mt Stephen produced avalanches up to size 2 today. Also, on Wapta peak a cornice dropped and produced a size 2 in extreme terrain within the last 36 hours. On a flight through Yoho evidence of a wide spread cycle up to size 3 was observed that likely occurred in the last 3-4 days.

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain on Wednesday

Problems

Persistent Slabs

This problem represents a classic low likelihood high consequence situation. Areas that have not previously avalanched will be more susceptible to triggering.

Be wary of slopes that did not previously avalanche

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Storm Slabs

Storm slabs will continue to settle. These slabs will be touchy on Southern aspects in the afternoon.

Avoid sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong, especially if snow is moist or wet.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Apr 2nd, 2014 4:00PM