Avalanche Canada is reporting considerable avalanche risk in the alpine in the East Kootenay.
In the Lizard-Flathead, South Rockies and the Parks Canada ranges, Avalanche Canada reports: “It’s expected to be very warm and sunny Wednesday, alpine temperatures could be as warm as +6 C. The snowpack doesn’t like rapid changes like this. Cornice failures and even natural avalanches are possible as we head into the warm spell.”
For the Purcells, Avalanche Canada notes: “Things are looking hot up high for the next couple days. Naturally triggered wet loose avalanches are possible on all aspects and especially likely on solar aspects. Overhead hazards will be a primary concern.”
Travel and Terrain Advice
Be careful around freshly wind loaded features.
Extra caution for areas experiencing rapidly warming temperatures for the first time.
Minimize overhead exposure; avalanches triggered by warming or cornice fall may be large and destructive.
A moist or wet snow surface, pinwheeling and natural avalanches are all indicators of a weakening snowpack.
