Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 4th, 2013 9:29AM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Persistent Slabs.

jlammers, Avalanche Canada

South Rockies.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain

Weather Forecast

Tuesday: Light snowfall / Strong to extreme southwest winds / Alpine temperature of about -7.0Wednesday: Light snowfall / Extreme west winds / Alpine temperature of about -9.0 Thursday: Variable cloud in the morning with clearing in the afternoon / Light southwest winds / Alpine temperature of about -8.0

Avalanche Summary

No recent avalanches have been reported.

Snowpack Summary

The snow surface is a combination of wind slab at higher elevations, settled storm snow and spotty surface hoar in more sheltered terrain, and a crust on previously sun-exposed slopes. A variable interface buried on Jan 23 is down about 15-35cm. In most locations it appears to be well bonded; however, buried surface hoar (up to 20mm) has been found in some locations. This will be something to watch as the overlying slab develops. The lower snowpack is generally well-settled.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Forecast light snowfall and strong southwest winds will create fresh wind slabs. Watch for triggering behind ridgecrests and in gullies.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Persistent Slabs

A mixed bag of weak interfaces is buried about 15-30 cm down. The nature of these weaknesses varies greatly from valley to valley.

Make observations and assess conditions continually as you travel.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Feb 5th, 2013 2:00PM