While walking in and out of King Creek in Kananaskis Country
yesterday, Dec 5, I observed the debris of several size 1.0 - 1.5
loose snow avalanches that had occurred during the day. These point
releases came out of south facing gullies above the creek and ran
approximately 100 meters down to the trail, leaving 150 cm of
debris. The slides ran to ground in 30 cm of highly faceted snow.
Temperatures during the day in the creek bottom varied from -19°C to
-15°C, but the temperatures at higher elevations were much higher.
At 10 00 on the same day, Nakiska ridgetop was reporting 1°C.
Ice climbers should be careful in their route selection. Be
especially wary of south facing climbs in gully features that have
start zones in the alpine.
Grant Meekins
ACMG Mountain Guide
Yamnuska Mountain Adventures
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These observations and opinions are those of the person who submitted them. The
ACMG and its members take no responsibility for errors, omissions, or lapses in
continuity. Conditions differ greatly over time and space due to the variable
nature of mountain weather and terrain. Application of this information
provides no guarantee of increased safety. Do not use the Mountain Conditions
Report as the sole factor in planning trips or making decisions in the field.
Please check out http://acmg.ca/mcr for more information.
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