Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 7th, 2015 4:00PM

The alpine rating is low, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Cornices.

mike eder, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Strong solar radiation in the afternoon has the potential to increase the avalanche danger on steep solar aspects. Avoid traveling on routes which are exposed to cornices.

Summary

Weather Forecast

The next few days will see clear skies with good overnight recovery and daytime temperatures reaching into the low teens by Thursday. Light SW winds will not have a significant impact on the snowpack. The weekend's forecast will call for precipitation and warmer temperatures

Snowpack Summary

Suncrust on solar aspects. 5-10 cm over a supportive temperature crust can be found on all aspects tree line and above to 2500m. The weak basal facet layer is bridged by a strong mid-pack in most areas at treeline and above.

Avalanche Summary

Several loose snow avalanches originating near ridgetop on solar aspects. Debris from recent cornice falls were observed on steep unskiable terrain which DID NOT propagate any avalanches on the slopes below. Despite relatively sunny skies, the air remained cool dampening avalanche activity. Likely the same condition expected Wednesday.

Confidence

Problems

Cornices

Cornice failures 24hours or older were observed on steep unskiable terrain on Northerly aspects. Avoid this overhead hazard while traveling since the warmer temperatures may increase the number of cornice failures.

Give cornices a wide berth when travelling on or below ridges.Cornices become weak with daytime heating.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Apr 8th, 2015 4:00PM