Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 23rd, 2011 4:00PM

The alpine rating is considerable, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Deep Persistent Slabs.

a.l. horton, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Warming temperatures with the possibility of rain showers forecast for this weekend could increase the avalanche danger below treeline. Pay close attention to abrupt changes in temperature and precipitation type if traveling in avalanche terrain.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Saturday

Problems

Wind Slabs

The alpine is mostly blown bare with hard windslabs and loaded lee slopes that can be easily identified and avoided. Wind slabs are present on easterly treeline aspects. These can be a little more tricky to identify so avoid slabby feeling slopes.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Deep Persistent Slabs

Basal facet collapses are still occurring below the midpack bridging layer. Shallow snowpack areas and rocky outcrops are likely trigger locations. A large full path avalanche could result if this weakness is triggered.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South, South West.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Dec 24th, 2011 4:00PM