Avalanche forecast

Kananaskis

Mar 6 – 7, 2019Alberta Parks
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Avalanche danger

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

We are in a pattern of change with the warming temperatures and Spring like weather.  Limit your exposure when the solar radiation is strong.

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.

  • Loose Dry

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible - Likely
    Size
    1–2
    Mostly a problem in steep terrain, but we are starting to see some solar triggered slides as well.

  • 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

Thursday is to bring a mix of sun and cloud with a chance of light flurries in the afternoon.  The morning will start at around -17c and warm up to -7c.  Winds are expected to be moderate from the SW.

Avalanche Summary

One size 2 slab avalanche on a south aspect on Mt. Birdwood occured in the last 36 hours.  This slab was 20-40cm thick.  Numerous other loose dry and thin slab avalanches were observed in the alpine running into treeline from East to South aspects.

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. Overall the snowpack is very weak and it is possible that loose snow facet avalanches could occur at any elevation, triggered by solar input, cornice failures, loose rocks or a skier/rider. These slides have the potential to run far and could be problematic in gullies and similar terrain traps. At low elevations expect ski penetration to ground if you leave an established track.  The solar radiation is starting to have an effect on slopes that are facing the sun. 

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