Avalanche forecast

Waterton Lakes

Mar 3 – 6, 2016Parks Canada
View on map
Archived · expired 11 years ago

Avalanche danger

Thu
Fri
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
Open full map

Highlights

More new snow has fallen at upper elevations near the divide, expect to find some good turns in sheltered areas and wind slabs in the lee of exposed features.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2
    Moderate to strong SW winds continue to blow recent snowfall onto lee slopes, forming wind slabs.

  • Cornices

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    1–2
    Cornices have been growing in size. These can fail at any time, but should be given an especially wide berth when temperatures are warm, and/or snow is being transported by wind.

Avalanche Summary

No recent activity has been observed or reported. On Monday, a neighboring operation observed a large slab avalanche on a north aspect, this was triggered by cornice fall in extreme terrain.

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain

Weather Forecast

A weakening front will bring unsettled air through the area on Thursday, giving scattered flurries, moderate to strong SW winds and ongoing warm temperatures (freezing level around 1750m). This is followed by a brief ridge on Friday which will bring sunny skies, light winds, and slightly cooler temps.

Snowpack Summary

Up to 25cm of recent storm snow is being redistributed by Strong SW winds, building on existing large cornices, and creating fresh wind slabs on many lee slopes. The new snow overlies a well settled mid snowpack with a series of up to 4 crusts on all but shaded alpine aspects. The bonds to these crusts warrant assessment but appear strong for now.

Regions covered