Avalanche forecast

Banff Yoho Kootenay

Jan 2 – 3, 2019Parks Canada
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Fri
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Preemptive avalanche control is planned for Mt. Stephen, Mt. Field and the Simpson Slide Paths. No activities in these areas tomorrow. Expect a major system with significant snowfall starting late tomorrow.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2
    Strong SW winds blew mid-storm on Dec. 29th creating touchy new slabs. While the cold temperatures that have followed have diminished the sensitivity of these slabs, they are still reactive with explosives in steep terrain.

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1.5–2.5
    A stiff slab overlying a weak lower snowpack comprised of facets and depth hoar can be found in most areas of the region (generally central and eastern) where a shallow snowpack exists. Give this weak snowpack some time to adjust to the storm load.

Weather Forecast

A major system is heading for the forecast region starting late tomorrow. The models have varying data but upwards of 40cm is expected throughout Thursday and Friday. The system is accompanied by warm temperatures. Surprisingly, wind does not appear to be increasing when the front tracks through the forecast region, but this could easily change.

Snowpack Summary

Wind effect exists in the alpine and at treeline. Below treeline, the surface is faceted powder. This overlies the Dec. 10th layer of facets and depth hoar which is down 60-100 cm. In thin snowpack areas, the Dec. 10th layer is mixed in with the basal facets and October crust. In thicker areas, it is a distinct layer, with a stronger snowpack below

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches observed or reported today however potential for human triggering remains.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Thursday

Regions covered