Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 24th, 2013 4:00PM

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

garth lemke, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Skier support is minimal below treeline. Early season hazards lurk just below the snow. Temperatures may warm slightly on Monday and Tuesday. Watch for increase in avalanche activity particularly on solar aspects.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Flurries, light to moderate Westerly winds, will prevail through Monday. Tuesday may have warmer valley bottom temperatures and sunny periods.

Snowpack Summary

Snowpack ranges from 5-100cm with 4cm raincrust down 40cm at treeline and above. A 15cm windslab exists in open areas treeline and above. Moderate wind transport continues.

Avalanche Summary

48 hour or older three size 2's noted off Kitchener ridge, East aspect. A few size 1 solar releases noted on South aspects.

Confidence

Due to the number and quality of field observations

Problems

Persistent Slabs

4cm thick raincrust exists 20cm off the ground with facets above and below. Easy result on this layer with extended column test highlights the potential for triggering. Some whumphing occurred on this layer but not widespread.

Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Wind Slabs

Moderate winds continue to transport snow further developing this condition. Observers found it to be 15cm thick at treeline and suspect it to be thicker in other locations.

Assess start zones carefully and use safe travel techniques.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Nov 25th, 2013 4:00PM