Avalanche forecast

Waterton Lakes

Dec 24 – 28, 2013Parks Canada
View on map
Archived · expired 13 years ago

Avalanche danger

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

Highlights

Thin coverage over rocks and stumps remains a significant hazard. Do not let these conditions push you into areas where persistent slabs can be triggered. The best skiing can be found on supportive, modest-angled slopes near treeline-Merry Christmas!

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    1–3
    Weak snow associated with crusts formed in Mid and early November can be found down about 70cm. This seems to be less significant on Southerly aspects. Triggering planar slopes from thin areas remains a possibility to consider.

  • Storm Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2
    Thin and soft slabs formed with recent snow and warm temperatures can be found almost everywhere. With time, the forecast West Winds will likely redistribute this snow to form wind slabs near ridgelines and in gully features.

Weather Forecast

West winds will continue. Expect some sunny periods Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday with 5cm of precipitation expected for Thursday. Temperatures will be warm for the period however Thursday and Friday look to be very warm. Sun or Precipitation during this warm period could have negative effects on both snow stability and ski quality.

Snowpack Summary

10 to 15 cm of snow from the last 72 hours with near freezing temperatures, and significant W winds, have led to the formation of thin and soft storm slabs above the previous wind scoured and hardened surfaces. The sugary Faceted Crystals associated with the November Crusts are buried 50 to 70 cm presenting a weak layer that remains of interest.

Avalanche Summary

One significant wind slab released on the steep wind loaded face above Wall Lake on Saturday. 

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain

Regions covered