Avalanche forecast

Waterton Lakes

Feb 28 – Mar 2, 2020Parks Canada
View on map
Archived · expired 7 years ago

Avalanche danger

Sat
Sun
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
Open full map

Highlights

Rising temperatures coupled with a developing windslab hazard warrant caution despite the moderate - low hazard ratings.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    We are still seeing moderate wind transport as of Thursday, February 27th.

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    2–3

    Warming temperatures on Friday and Saturday may make it possible to trigger weakness near the base of the snowpack in shallow areas.

Weather Forecast

Friday: A mix of sun and cloud. West wind 50km/h gusting 70.  Freezing level rising to 1900m during the day.

Friday Night: 2-4 cm of snow . West wind 60km/h gusting 90.

Saturday. Partial cloud with isolated flurries. Up to 5 cm snow. Freezing Level 1400m.

Sunday:  Mostly sunny. Moderate West wind switching NW midday. Freezing level valley bottom.

Snowpack Summary

Strong westerly winds continue to develop windslabs in lee areas. Surface windslabs sit on a variety of surfaces including old windslab, suncrust & the Feb.1 melt freeze crust. Expect windslabs to be more reactive on solar aspects particularly during warm temps on Friday. The midpack is strong, though weaker basal facets can be found in thin areas.

Avalanche Summary

No new observations.

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain

Regions covered