Avalanche forecast

Waterton Lakes

Jan 11 – 14, 2019Parks Canada
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Archived · expired 8 years ago

Avalanche danger

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

Lingering uncertainty about the ability to trigger deep persistent weak layers requires a cautious approach to terrain.  Avoid thick to thin snowpack transitions, and have a healthy respect for what is above you.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    1–3
    There has not been much recent activity on the facets deep in the snowpack, but there is still the possibility to trigger them in shallow areas.

Weather Forecast

FRIDAY        A mix of sun and cloud with Moderate SW wind. Alpine temperature inversion with a high of +2 at 2000m.SATURDAY  Mostly Sunny with Light West Winds. Freezing Level rising to 2500m.SUNDAY      Sunny. Calm Winds. Freezing levels 3000m

Snowpack Summary

The Alpine remains wind affected with 20-30cm new wind slabs above many layers of old wind slab. High daytime freezing levels have led to significant settlement and moist snow at tree line and below. At all elevations the mid snowpack is well settled however the bottom remains facetted and weak. Snow cover is variable (160cm average at treeline).

Avalanche Summary

Size 1 Loose Wet debris observed along the Akamina Parkway between 1800 and 2000m on NE and SE aspects.

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain on Saturday

Regions covered