[MCR] Solar affect on the ice.

[Public Mountain Conditions Report]

Spent yesterday morning at the Junkyards in Canmore, it is getting sun until 1130am. As many folks probably noted, the sun is packing a lot of heat these days, and it is that time of year that solar exposure and daytime heating should be taken into account in our daily planning and route selection. Over the next few days as temperatures spike it's probably a good time not to be in a big avalanche gully, or hanging out under dangling icicles, and unsupported pillars. If you find yourself somewhere like Haffner or the Junkyards, overbuilding your anchors, incorporating v-threads (that you made!) into them, using rock anchors if possible, and checking on your anchors frequently throughout the day are all good ideas when the sun is out. 


Jason Billing
Assistant Alpine Guide
Yamnuska Mountain Adventures