Avalanche forecast

Jasper

Mar 7 – 8, 2014Parks Canada
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Sat
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Ski quality is top notch in the Jasper backcountry. Pay attention to the effects of new snow,  increased winds and rising temperatures over the course of the weekend.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    1–3
    This problem has yet to materialize in full force, but with rising temperatures and forecast winds we expect this surface condition to become quite touchy over the weekend. 

  • Loose Dry

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2
    Little wind has accompanied the new snow of the past two days. Sluffing out of steep terrain may be of concern, particularly for ice climbers.

Weather Forecast

Moderate snow falls, increased wind and the potential for rapid warming are in the forecast for the weekend.  Accumulations may be in excess of 25 cm at higher elevation near the Columbia Icefield Area. 

Snowpack Summary

The new snow has come in cold and with very little wind.  Field tests at tree line today showed an easy failure of the mid pack over basal facets and depth hoar but nothing related to the storm snow.  With the forecast rising temperatures, new snow and increased wind we anticipate the avalanche danger to rise at all elevations over the weekend.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches observed.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain

Regions covered