Avalanche forecast

Jasper

Nov 28 – 29, 2012Parks Canada
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Archived · expired 14 years ago

Avalanche danger

Wed
Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Features of concern remain: ridgetop transitions with local winds creating surface slabs plus shallow locations where deeper instabilities could be triggered. Despite less natural activity, human triggered avalanches remain possible.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    1–3
    No new natural activity on this layer has been noted for a few days yet potential still exists on steep unsupported wind affected slopes. This layer can be found under 10-20cm of recent storm snow, at ridgetops, and where reverse loading occurred.

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    2–3
    Persistent slabs are found in the mid-pack overlying crust or developing facets. Snow load from wind deposition or significant snowfall may increase the likelihood of natural avalanches. Consequences would be severe if skier triggered.

Weather Forecast

Temperatures will trend cooler the next few days with continued unsettled weather. A few centemetres every day this week with continued light winds. Expect winds to be stronger at some local ridgetop locations or higher alpine elevations. 

Snowpack Summary

Minimal wind affect observed and 10-15cm of low density surface snow in most areas. Windslabs can be found in the alpine buried under last week's snow and may be developing at exposed ridgetops.  Several small whumphs observed in shallow areas. Winds remain calm for the most part.

Avalanche Summary

Several loose natural point releases observed on in steep rocky terrain did not trigger slopes below.  No new slab avalanches have been observed for 3 days. Caution is still warranted despite the decrease in natural activity.

Confidence

Wind effect is extremely variable

Regions covered