Wind effect in the tree line was observed more significant than anticipated. Wind slabs are forming in unusual spots due to reversed loading. Cooler temperatures are expected to stabilize the snowpack into the week.
These slabs are sitting on old hard surfaces (old wind slabs, temperature and sun crusts).Reactivity is expected to drop with cold temperatures.
Most concern for ice climbers. Avoid narrow gullies and climbs exposed to steep rocky terrain.
Tuesday:Sunny with cloudy periods.Precipitation: Nil.Alpine temperature: High -19 °C.Ridge wind northeast: 10 km/h.Freezing level at valley bottom.
Wednesday:A mix of sun and cloud with isolated flurries.Precipitation: Trace.Alpine temperature: Low -19 °C, High -17 °C.Ridge wind west: 10 km/h.Freezing level at valley bottom.
New and old wind slabs created over the last week. Latest Northerly winds contributing to reversed loading. Weak temperature crust up to 1900m and solar crust on solar aspects up to 2800m. December facets down 20-70cm, showing signs of rounding within bulletin region. Basal facets & depth hoar present throughout area.
No Patrol on Monday. Patrol in the Icefields and Maligne area did not observe any natural avalanche activity on Sunday.
