Avalanche forecast

Jasper

Mar 15 – 16, 2015Parks Canada
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Archived · expired 12 years ago

Avalanche danger

Tue
Wed
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Great skiing can be found in sheltered areas above treeline.

Avalanche problems

  • Storm Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible - Likely
    Size
    1–3
    Soft  slab conditions on lee alpine aspects appear to have bonded well in most locations.  Approach these features with caution and test bonding on the slope from a safe area before committing.

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    2–4
    Large cornices or surface avalanches are the likely trigger.

Weather Forecast

Daytime temperatures will gradually rise into the week with good overnight recovery.  Light alpine and treeline SW winds can be expected.  Sunny conditions will make for inviting conditions.

Snowpack Summary

Up to 35 cm of storm snow has fallen in the alpine in the Icefields Area with rain at lower elevations.  Strong SW winds has created soft slab conditions on lee aspects. Deep persistent weaknesses (crusts and basal facets) exist at the base of the snowpack. A strong rain crust extends into treeline.

Avalanche Summary

A 2.5 slab avalanche was observed below an alpine ridge on NE aspect.  This avalanche stepped down to a crust deeper in the snowpack.  No other natural avalanches were noted today.

Confidence

Due to the number and quality of field observations on Monday

Regions covered