Avalanche forecast

South Rockies

Jan 23 – 24, 2014Avalanche Canada
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Sun
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–3
    Above freezing temperatures will have a destabilizing effect on the snowpack, especially at upper elevations where the forecast inversion will pack a punch.

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    2–4
    Warming forecast for the next few days may re-activate weaknesses buried deep in the snowpack. Although they have become less likely, avalanches on these layers could be destructive.

Confidence

Fair - Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain on Friday

Weather Forecast

A ridge of high pressure will continue to dominate the region bringing mainly clear skies and dry conditions for the forecast period. Another inversion will set in for all 3 days with above freezing alpine temperatures. Winds should remain mainly light and west/northwesterly.

Avalanche Summary

Very isolated wind slabs to size 1.5 were reported to have been triggered in the Elk Valley South area. They occurred in response to new snow on Tuesday night.

Snowpack Summary

Light amounts of new snow overlie a variety of surfaces which include: old, stubborn wind slabs in exposed terrain, well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas or a melt-freeze crust on steep, previously sun-exposed slopes. The main concern in the region appears to be weak buried facet crystals. The facet layer, which exists in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region), was responsible for some serious close calls last week. Although activity at this interface has tapered-off, this persistent problem has potential to re-awaken with warming forecast for the next few days. Other possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.

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