Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 13th, 2018 4:50PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is moderate. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Loose Wet.

jsmith, Avalanche Canada

South Rockies.

Danger may be one step higher in localized areas that receive more than 10 cm of new snow on Saturday.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain

Weather Forecast

SATURDAY: Mix of sun and cloud. Moderate to strong southwesterly ridgetop winds. Alpine temperature -3. Freezing level around 1900 m.SUNDAY: Mix of sun and cloud. Moderate southwesterly ridgetop winds. Alpine temperature 0. Freezing level around 2000 m.MONDAY: 5-10 cm new snow. Light easterly ridgetop winds. Alpine temperature -5. Freezing level around 1500 m.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were reported in this region on Thursday.

Snowpack Summary

5-10 cm recent storm snow and moderate variable winds have formed small wind slabs on a variety of aspects sitting on hard crusts on lee features at treeline and above. Numerous crusts exist within the top 100 cm of the snowpack. Some parts of the region may have a surface hoar layer roughly 60 cm deep on sheltered northerly aspects at treeline.A well settled midpack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.

Problems

Wind Slabs

New snow and wind have formed small wind slabs on leeward areas near ridge crests and convex features. These slabs may be touchy were they sit on a recent crust.

Use caution when transitioning into wind effected terrain.Avoid areas that look freshly loaded with snow; especially convex features below ridgetops.Avoid shallow, rocky areas where the snowpack transition from thin to thick.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 1.5

Loose Wet

Rising freezing levels and daytime warming have been triggers for recent large, loose wet snow releases. Once moving, a loose, wet release may have the potential to trigger a slab on a deeper weak layer.

Cornices become weak with daytime heating. Give them a wide berth from above and below.Minimize exposure to sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 14th, 2018 2:00PM