Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 7th, 2013 4:00PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Loose Dry.

rupert wedgwood, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Strong westerly winds in the alpine are expected over the next 24 hours.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Over the next 24 hours snow flurries will bring modest amounts of fresh snow as a north westerly frontal system moves over the area. At treeline and above temperatures will remain in the -15 range with strong gusting winds. More snow is forecast overnight on Tuesday.

Snowpack Summary

Cold temperatures and the lack of snow over the pastÂ month has eroded the core strength of the snowpack. Watch for windslab conditions in the alpine and the most recent feature of the snowpack which is a surface hoar crystal layer. This is starting to be buried and once covered by 30cm of snow will present an avalanche problem.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were seen in the Maligne and Bald Hills area today.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Tuesday

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs can be found above tree line in exposed terrain. These slabs have been unreactive to skier traffic; however, it remains possible to trigger one in steep unsupported terrain. Assess your transitions for changing conditions.

The best powder will be found in sheltered locations at or below treeline.Caution in lee and cross-loaded terrain near ridge crests.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Loose Dry

Loose snow avalanches are possible in steep thin snowpack slopes and gully features as facetting process dominates. Solar triggering is most likely initiator but not solely responsible. They may knock you off a climb or bury you in a terrain trap.

Be very cautious with gully features.Avoid convexities or areas with a thin or variable snowpack.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Jan 8th, 2013 4:00PM