Avalanche forecast

Jasper

Mar 20 – 21, 2015Parks Canada
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Archived · expired 12 years ago

Avalanche danger

Sun
Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Continuing snow will improve ski conditions on treeline and alpine slopes. On solar aspects, a breakable suncrust reduces the fun factor.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2
    These soft slabs have bonded well in most locations. Slab depths range from 25 to 65cm. Slabs sit on a graupel layer around Marmot and a facet layer elsewhere. Moderate shear tests have been found on this interface.

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    2–3
    Large cornices or surface avalanches are the likely trigger.

Weather Forecast

Light precipitation to continue until Sunday morning with amounts of 10-15 cm expected at upper elevations.  Rain likely below treeline.  Light to moderate SW winds to continue.  Clearing on Sunday with falling freezing levels.

Snowpack Summary

Crusts exist up to 2200m on all aspects and extend higher on solar aspects. Above treeline, wind slabs up to 65cm thick can be found in isolated locations. Bonding of these slabs is good however a graupel (Marmot Area) and facet (elsewhere) layer has moderate shear tests. Deeper weaknesses can be found near the base of the snowpack.

Avalanche Summary

No avalanche patrol on Friday. No avalanches reported.

Confidence

Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Saturday

Regions covered