[MCR] MCR Summary - Rockies and Interior, August 31

Subject: [MCR] MCR Summary - Rockies and Interior, August 31
Date: Thu, 31 Aug 2006 17:02:20 -0700
Mountain Conditions Summary - Rockies and Interior Ranges
August 31, 2006

The exceptionally dry conditions of this summer have come to an end, and winter 
has arrived to many alpine areas throughout the range.

On Wednesday the weather pattern shifted to a NW flow, bringing cooler 
temperatures and heavy rain to the mountains. The heaviest precipitation fell 
in Continental Divide areas, where reports of up to 25cm at higher elevations 
were received. Mt. Assiniboine and Mt. Temple are plastered in new snow. The 
Columbia Icefields area also received a significant dump of fresh snow - 
although amounts may taper further to the north, as less rain fell in Japer on 
than in southern areas. The eastern end of the Bow Valley also received snow, 
but again less than the divide, and down to about 2400 meters.

Reports are limited, but areas in Roger?s Pass and the Bugaboos appear to have 
received a bit less snow than the central Rockies. Estimates range from 10-20cm 
in Glacier Park and the Bugaboos. The snow fell to treeline elevations in all 
areas, but has been steadily melting upwards on Thursday and this melting trend 
should continue. Expect snowline at about 2700 meters, lower on north aspects.

All of this means the dry alpine rock climbing is done for now, especially on 
shaded routes. South aspects should melt quickly, as the weekend forecast calls 
for blue sky and valley bottom temps in the mid 20?s. Expect wet rock climbing 
and morning verglass over the rocks. Areas to the east and west of the 
Continental Divide will offer the driest rock - Ha Ling Peak and the East End 
of Mt. Rundle near Canmore are free of snow and drying fast.

Glacier travel has become more complicated, as just days ago the ice was bare 
and crevasses visible. This has changed. Be wary of thin bridges across 
crevasses and ensure you use some kind of pole to probe your way through any 
crevassed areas.

25 cm is enough snow to create a slab avalanche hazard on the higher elevation 
mountaineering routes, particularly when drifted by the wind. Be wary of 
recently developed windslabs in leeward areas (N Glacier route on Athabasca, 
for example). This condition should stabilize rapidly with the warm 
temperatures this weekend.

It looks like a glorious weekend ahead. Trees in the valley bottoms show a hint 
of yellow, today?s temperatures were cool, while the mountains were white and 
glistening in the sunshine. The waning days of a beautiful summer are upon us ? 
enjoy!

Grant Statham
Mountain Guide





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