Kananaskis

Stormy conditions are on the way which will lead to a steady rise in avalanche danger. Pay close attention to localized conditions. Rapid loading due to heavy snowfall and/or strong winds will quickly lead to higher avalanche danger.

Isolated naturally triggered loose dry avalanches up to size 1.5 were observed in extreme alpine terrain today. These slides occurred on North aspects at 2700m and above.

Somewhere between 5 and 10cm of new snow fell in the last 24 hrs. At tree line and above wind slabs have become more prominent, and with the forecasted wind speeds near 100km/h, more widespread wind slab development is almost certain. In recent days the wind slabs have been unreactive to stability tests and ski cutting, but that will change with increased load. The mid November crust is still giving us good travel up to 2350m and is only just started to break down in some areas.

Monday will be cloudy with light snow through the day, increasing to heavy snow by the evening. Accumulations near 10cm are possible through the day with up to 25cm by Tuesday morning. Temperatures will be near -5C and winds will be pegged into the extreme range out of the SW.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind-affected terrain.
• Be alert to conditions that change with elevation, aspect, and exposure to wind.
• Minimize exposure during periods of heavy loading from new snow and wind.
• Avoid avalanche terrain during periods of heavy loading from new snow, wind, or rain.
• Be careful with sluffing in steep terrain, especially above cliffs and terrain traps.