- Date
- Friday, November 14, 2025
- Tagged under
Over the past week, there’s been a noticeable rise in near-miss reports submitted to the MIN
We’re off to a busy start this November. Over the past week, there’s been a noticeable rise in near-miss reports submitted to the Mountain Information Network (MIN) with storm slabs and wind slabs catching folks out. Huge thanks to everyone who’s been posting; early season observations are incredibly valuable.
Right now, conditions across the mountains are all over the map. Some regions are lining up for a solid dump of new snow, while others may see rain reaching all the way to the mountain tops, which could erase some of the existing avalanche problems but create a whole new set of challenges. The mix of new loading, warm temperatures, and variable early-season surfaces means things can change quickly from place to place.
A quick reminder that our regular avalanche forecasts don’t start until November 26 (though Parks Canada are publishing forecasts for the mountain national parks already and Kananaskis Country is coming soon). Until then, it’s especially important to treat all avalanche terrain with care. With a thin early-season snowpack, even a small slide can have serious consequences because of exposed rocks, stumps, and ground hazards.
If you’re getting out into the backcountry:
- Check recent MIN posts to see what others are encountering
- Travel cautiously in steep terrain
- Keep an eye on changing weather—new snow, wind, or rising freezing levels
- Practice avalanche rescue with your transceiver, shovel, and probe
- Share your own observations if you can because it helps the whole community
Thanks for keeping the reports coming, and stay safe out there until forecasting kicks off for the season.
This group ski cut a slope and triggered a size 2 storm slab which they were able to avoid. Credit: MIN user ahpbjmurray
A size 1.5 took a skier for a ride in Harvey Pass. Credit: MIN user l.mckinnon.
An observed near-miss in Glacier National Park. Credit: MIN user jeenamr
A different perspective on the Balu Pass avalanche in GNP from the group involved. Thankful for a good outcome. Credit: MIN user SUNSHY.