Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 28th, 2013 9:23AM

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

mbender, Avalanche Canada

South Rockies.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather is uncertain for the entire period

Weather Forecast

Synopsis: The precipitation associated with a Pineapple Express weather system approaching the province Friday is not forecast to affect the region. However, the associated warm temperatures and wind will. Friday: Light precipitation, strong gusting to intense westerly winds and alpine temperatures -3. Freezing level to 2200m.Saturday: Light precipitation, moderate to strong west winds, and freezing level of 2200m. Sunday: Light precipitation, light southeast winds, and freezing level of 1800m.

Avalanche Summary

Recent reports indicate a size 2 skier triggered avalanche off of a windloaded ridgeline feature running on a layer of facetted crystals. A subsequent size 1 avalanche was triggered nearby. This was in the Three Sisters area just north of Fernie.

Snowpack Summary

In protected areas up to 30cm of the most recent low density new snow sits on the surface. This has been shifted onto lee slopes by strong west and southwest winds. New storm slabs, cornices and wind slabs are likely. Mid and lower snowpack layers are generally well settled and stable.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Recent winds have created slabs in the lee of terrain features.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>Whumpfing, shooting cracks and recent avalanches are all strong indicators of an unstable snowpack.>Avoid freshly wind loaded features.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Cornices

Extra caution needed around cornices with current conditions.>Give cornices a wide berth when travelling on or below ridges.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Valid until: Mar 1st, 2013 2:00PM