Avalanche Forecast
Kananaskis Country, Alberta Parks
This unique weather pattern hasn't had the negative impact that was originally expected. Lots of good skiing can still be had, especially on the shady aspects. Enjoy the skiing, but don't switch to auto pilot and turn the "avalanche radar" off.
Avalanche Problem 1: Wind Slabs
What Elevation?
Which Slopes?
Chances of Avalanches?
Expected Size?
Travel and Terrain Advice
- Watch for clues, like sluffing off of cliffs, that the snowpack is warming up.
- Avoid lee and cross-loaded terrain near ridge crests.
Avalanche Problem 2: Persistent Slabs
What Elevation?
Which Slopes?
Chances of Avalanches?
Expected Size?
This layer is widespread in terms of its location in the terrain. Its condition seems to vary from an intact crust to a facetted mish mash of weak grains. Thin areas that have a hard slab over top should be treated with caution.
Travel and Terrain Advice
- Be cautious in shallow snowpack areas where triggering is more likely.
- Be aware of the potential for wide propagations due to the presence of hard windslabs.
Avalanche Summary
Some minor pin wheeling out of very steep, south facing terrain today.
Snowpack Summary
Significant surface hoar growth in low areas in the last 36-48 hours. It is found up to 2100m, and in some cases it is very large(20-30mm). Luckily the warmer temperatures above haven't allowed it to grow in the alpine or treeline areas. The warmth has also settled the treeline and alpine snow considerably. Non-polar aspects have settled snow, while steep solar aspects have moist snow and/or sun crusts in steeper areas by mid afternoon. The various crusts seem to be hanging in there with limited degradation in the last while. An alpine snow pit today had test results showing a good bond among the various layers. Wind prone areas still have a wind slab that may react to a skier's/rider's weight.
Weather Forecast
Tomorrow will see the temperature inversion continue. Alpine highs are expected to be around 2°. Winds will be from the west and be about 40km/hr. Mostly sunny with occasional cloud.
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These are found in the higher alpine areas, usually below cliffs or areas where the wind has loaded the snow in.