Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Mar 17th, 2018–Mar 20th, 2018

Alpine

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be low

Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Regions: Waterton Lakes.

Snow followed by the spring sun is the right recipe for loose wet avalanches late Monday through Tuesday. If Monday brings sun expect moderate hazards at all elevations.

Weather Forecast

Light NE winds through late Sunday. Turning to a light to moderate westerly flow through the rest of the week with clear skies. Expected snow fall amounts ranging from 5 to 15 cm anticipated to begin late Sunday through Monday.

Snowpack Summary

The forecast region received only a few centimeters on new snow since last Tuesday. Snow has been disappearing fast at lower elevations and south facing aspects, but wind loaded gulleys and north facing slope in the alpine are still holding snow. Colder temperatures have improved snowpack stability.

Avalanche Summary

No recent avalanche activity observed in the forecast region. Uncertain snowfall amounts followed by light to moderate west winds may create isolated wind slabs. Once the sun returns, loose wet avalanches are expected on steep solar aspects.

Confidence

Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain on Monday

Avalanche Problems

Loose Wet

Hazard will increase with clearing skies after new snow.

Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.Use extra caution on solar slopes or if the snow is moist or wet.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Possible - Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 1.5

Wind Slabs

Watch for these developing Monday afternoon through Tuesday.

Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and roll-overs.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 1.5