Avalanche forecast

Kananaskis

Mar 7 – 8, 2019Alberta Parks
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Sun
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Be on the watch for new wind slabs.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible - Likely
    Size
    1–2
    A variety of wind slabs can be found through the Alpine. These sit on a layer of facets and could be sensitive to triggering in steeper terrain.  Be on the watch for new wind slabs with these recent winds.

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1.5–3
    We are thinking this layer is becoming more reactive over time. As the slabs facet/weaken, the bridging effect will become less reliable. It is also possible that this layer will "wake up" as the days become warmer and the solar input increases.

Confidence

High -

Weather Forecast

Friday will be cloudy with light intermittent flurries. Morning temps will be -15c and warming to -10c. Winds will be strong from the West.

Avalanche Summary

One size 2 slab avalanche on a north aspect was observed in the Highwood area.

Snowpack Summary

Wind slabs are in abundance in the Alpine. As you descend to tree line, these slabs seem to quickly disappear, likely due to the persistent facetting. The bridging strength of the midpack that we have been observing all winter at tree line and below has disappeared thus making ski travel challenging, especially if you are making a new track. The wind today has started to move the snow around, so beware of new slabs on the surface.

Regions covered