Avalanche forecast

Jasper

Dec 18 – 19, 2021
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Avalanche danger

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

Highlights

Steady inputs of moderate wind and snow continue to build on the existing windslab hazard.

Travel delays expected Sunday for possible avalanche control on the Icefields Parkway. Check AB511 for updates.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    1–2

    New snow available for transport with moderate SW winds continue to incrementally build on this hazard. Use caution in lee features and near ridge crests.

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    2–3

    Triggering this layer would be a high consequence event - cautious decisions and thorough investigation is necessary. More likely to trigger this layer in transitions from thin snowpack to deeper loaded pockets or terrain features.

Weather Forecast

Tonight: Cloudy with clear periods. Temp: Low -19 °C. Ridge wind SW:10 km/h.

Saturday: Flurries. Accumulation: 10 cm. Temp: High -11 °C. Ridge wind SW:15-30 km/h.

Sunday: A mix of sun and cloud with isolated flurries. Precipitation: Trace. Alpine temperature: Low -17 °C, High -12 °C. Ridge wind light to 25 km/h.

Snowpack Summary

Moderate SW winds and small amounts of new snow over the week have formed sensitive wind slabs in alpine and treeline areas. Mid snowpack has settled with a 2cm crust present (down ~20cm) below the recent storm snow up to 1950m. Another crust near the base of the snowpack continues to promote basal faceting adding to deep persistent slab concerns.

Avalanche Summary

Anticipating possible Avalanche control operations on the Icefields Parkway beginning Sunday morning. Delays of up to 1.5 can be expected between 10:00 and 15:00. Check Alberta road conditions for updates.

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Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Saturday

Regions covered