[MCR] Large avalanche potential in the Rockies

A large natural avalanche occurred on Mt.
Stephen within the last 24 hours (see picture of avalanche deposit below).
 This avalanche was triggered at high elevation by a serac fall on
a glacier which entrained a large amount of wet snow. This event demonstrates
that the potential for large loads (ie. seracs/ cornices) to trigger large
avalanches and entrain wet snow still exists when surface crusts are thin
or non-existent (ie. warm days/ nights).  The avalanche ran over 2
km, with a 1200m vertical drop to the dry valley bottom.



Ian Jackson
Visitor Safety Technician / ACMG Aspirant Guide
Banff, Yoho, Kootenay National Parks
www.parksmountainsafety.ca
www.parcsecuritemontagne.ca

Mt.Stephen Ni.JPG
Description: JPEG image

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