Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 1st, 2012 8:16AM

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

jim phillips, Parks Canada

Glacier.

Very good ski conditions exist in the post storm period and it may be tempting to push the limits. Recent close calls demonstrate that dangerous avalanche conditions exist. Fair and mild weather with light snowfall is forecast in the short term.

Summary

Problems

Wind Slabs

This lingering problem from last week's storm remains a concern. Most natural avalanches in the past 36 hrs involve wind slab formed in the storm or other storm layers. Yesterday at tline stab test: RB4 whole block 60 cm deep.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Persistent Slabs

A series of weak surface hoar layers exist down 80 and 110cm. These layers could be easily triggered by skiers. Avalanches propagate widely, may be remotely triggered, and fracture above skiers.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

2 - 4

Deep Persistent Slabs

In the high alpine basal weaknesses exist and may cause large or very large avalanches. These may slide from large triggers or during periods of heavy storm loading. Large glide cracks failing near ground are also a significant concern this year.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

3 - 4

Valid until: Jan 2nd, 2012 8:00AM