Kananaskis

A storm arrives on Tuesday which won't likely raise the avalanche danger until late in the day, or into Wednesday. However, keep an eye on localized conditions and be prepared to adjust terrain choices if the timing of the snowfall is earlier than expected. Ski quality is currently very poor until above 2400m.

Moderate

• We are uncertain due to the timing of the incoming weather system.

No avalanches observed today.

The recent widespread historical avalanche cycle is beginning to slow down but it hasn't ended just yet. Recent wind slabs on Saturday were still failing in alpine areas as the winds increased throughout the day.

Surface crusts up to 35cm thick are now widespread below 2400m, and in most cases the crust is supportive to skier traffic. Underneath the crust the snowpack remains moist to a depth of as much as 40cm down.

Recent storm snow above 2400m up to 50cm deep is being redistributed by strong winds, and forming wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded terrain. These wind slabs are likely to be reactive as the new snow reloads previous bed surfaces and/or adds load to slopes that didn't release during the big rain/snow/wind event last week,

Tuesday will be overcast with a high of -3C at ridgetop. Flurries will start in the morning with accumulations near 5cm by midday and 20cm by late evening. Freezing levels could reach as high as 2100m. Winds will initially be light from the SW in the morning, increasing to moderate midday and then strong by evening. A further 5cm is possible by Wednesday.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• A hard crust on the snow surface will help strengthen the snowpack, but may cause tough travel conditions.
• Continue to make conservative terrain choices while the storm snow settles and stabilizes.
• Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.
• Avoid freshly wind-loaded terrain features.