Cold and clear conditions have led to the development of large surface hoar crystals that may provide the next weak layer in the snowpack if and when we get any significant precipitation.
Weather Forecast
Some snow flurries and moderate South Westerly are forecast for the Columbia Icefields area overnight and into Sunday.
Snowpack Summary
Cold and clear conditions have led to the development of large surface hoar crystals that may provide the next weak layer in the snowpack if and when we get any significant precipitation and slab build up. The interface between the strong mid-pack and weaker basal facets is most susceptible to human triggering from shallow rocky areas.
Avalanche Summary
No avalanches reported today.
Confidence
Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Sunday
Problems
Wind Slabs
Wind Slab avalanches are the release of a cohesive layer of snow (a slab) formed by the wind. Wind typically transports snow from the upwind sides of terrain features and deposits snow on the downwind side. Wind slabs are often smooth and rounded and sometimes sound hollow, and can range from soft to hard. Wind slabs that form over a persistent weak layer (surface hoar, depth hoar, or near-surface facets) may be termed Persistent Slabs or may develop into Persistent Slabs.
Deep Persistent Slabs
Deep Persistent Slab avalanches are the release of a thick cohesive layer of hard snow (a slab), when the bond breaks between the slab and an underlying persistent weak layer deep in the snowpack. The most common persistent weak layers involved in deep, persistent slabs are depth hoar or facets surrounding a deeply buried crust. Deep Persistent Slabs are typically hard to trigger, are very destructive and dangerous due to the large mass of snow involved, and can persist for months once developed. They are often triggered from areas where the snow is shallow and weak, and are particularly difficult to forecast for and manage.