Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 10th, 2013 3:00PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Loose Dry.

jeremy.mackenzie, Alberta Parks

Kananaskis.

Steep south facing slopes could see a more rapid increase in avalanche hazard on Monday if weather forecasts come true. Be aware of overhead terrain and avoid terrain traps during periods of intense solar radiation.

Summary

Confidence

Good

Weather Forecast

Alpine temperatures will be warm overnight with a high near -3 degrees. Winds are expected to increase 70km/h out of the NW at ridgetop. A very small wave of precipitation is possible on Tuesday.

Avalanche Summary

Nothing new.

Snowpack Summary

Moist snow on steep S and SW aspects in afternoon. Up to 20cm of recent snow in alpine areas remains low density except in wind prone areas. Previously formed hard slabs are still a concern in steep, convex terrain especially in shallow snowpack areas. At lower altitudes the snowpack continues to loose strength due to facetting.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Previously formed hard slabs are now hidden by recent snowfalls. Shallow snowpack areas and steep convex features are potential triggering spots for this problem.

Avoid convexities or areas with a thin or variable snowpack.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Loose Dry

Solar triggered sluffing is possible if sunny skies return on Monday. Steep rocky terrain and cornices are features of concern. Avoid terrain traps, such as gully features on ice climbs.

Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices.>Avoid sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong, especially if snow is moist or wet.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Feb 11th, 2013 2:00PM