Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 28th, 2020 4:00PM

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

Avalanche Canada mmueller, Avalanche Canada

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Kananaskis.

In response to COVID-19 and the temporary suspension of services, public avalanche bulletins will not be issued for the remainder of the 2020 spring season. Please stay at home to help limit the spread of COVID-19, and to minimize demands placed on the health care system.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Uncertainty is due to the track & intensity of the incoming weather system.

Weather Forecast

We have some snow in the forecast. By Tomorrow evening there could be as much as 13cm, and by Tuesday almost 30cm. It will start later tonight and continue beyond Tuesday. The winds will initially be 50km/hr from the SW, but fade by Monday. Temperatures tomorrow will be -5 to -2 with a freezing level of 2000m. 

Avalanche Summary

Nothing noted today, however observations were limited.

Snowpack Summary

The snow from earlier in the week has settled and bonded with the underlying layers. The windslabs mentioned earlier in the week are still there and have generally improved, but there are still suspect pockets. Steep, alpine roll overs should still be treated with caution. As spring rolls on, expect quick changes during the day. Solar input and/or air temperatures can quickly weaken the snowpack.

Terrain and Travel

  • Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
  • Avoid convexities, steep unsupported terrain and rocky outcroppings.
  • Be aware of the potential for large avalanches due to the presence of a deep persistent slab.
  • Caution around slopes that are exposed to cornices overhead.

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs

The older windslabs have improved in the past few days. The incoming snow will quickly form new wind slabs. 

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2.5

Deep Persistent Slabs

An icon showing Deep Persistent Slabs

The deep persistent layer is still a concern, especially in shallow snowpack areas. A large cornice trigger could also be enough to weak up this layer.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1.5 - 3.5

Valid until: Mar 29th, 2020 4:00PM

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