Dru Posted July 13, 2005 Posted July 13, 2005 Wardens Issue Avalanche Advisory for Climbers A cool and wet spring season has contributed to creating poor travel conditions and increased avalanche danger on the alpine climbing routes in the Rockies. The danger rating for steep snow covered slopes in the alpine is currently rated at CONSIDERABLE. Large snowfall amounts along with heavy rain at times in June created a rain soaked snowpack covered by a thin crust at the higher elevations. Recent cooler weather with dry snow and strong wind loading has in turn formed a winter type slab on top of the crust on some slopes. In late June and early July there have been several climber triggered avalanches up to size 2.5 on alpine routes in the Rockies with the latest one occurring on July 09th on the North Glacier on Mt. Athabasca. Slabs up to 80cm in depth with wide propagations have been observed. In addition, there have been several large natural avalanches up to size 3.5 over the last week related to isothermal wet snow avalanching, cornice failures and serac falls. Park Wardens are advising climbers to exercise extra caution when evaluating steep snow covered slopes and glaciated terrain. Conditions are unusual for this time of year and will not improve until we have an extended period of strong melting and overnight freezes. Avalanche training, experience and avalanche rescue equipment are recommended for climbing on routes with potential avalanche danger. An additional hazard to watch for are thinly bridged crevasses which may be difficult to observe due to recent storm snow and wind drifting. Further information on climbing routes and conditions can be obtained by calling the Park Wardens at 403-762-1470. heads up if thinking of some banff-jasper-yoho action Quote
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