Avalanche forecast

Jasper

Jan 10 – 11, 2014Parks Canada
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Archived · expired 13 years ago

Avalanche danger

Fri
Sat
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2
    The upper snowpack is a stratified layer of multiple windslabs. Recent field tests have produced failures with moderate shear strength. Currently this condition is less prevalent at treeline. Forecasted snowfall and wind will increase this concern.

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    2–3
    Many avalanche paths have already slid in the 2,400 m - 2,800 m range. Slopes that have not failed are expected to fail with the increased snow loading and winds this weekend.

Weather Forecast

A forecast of snow flurries and light winds should do little to change the avalanche hazard in the next 24 hours.

Snowpack Summary

Last weekend's storm snow overlies older wind slabs. In the alpine this newer snow has itself be blown into storm slabs which shear with easy to moderate force. The base of the snowpack is weak and unstable at all elevations. Near treeline the midpack is supportive and untracked powder can be found in wind sheltered locations.

Avalanche Summary

Increased loading with new snow and wind forecast for the weekend will renew avalanche activity at treeline and above. Field team noted the debris of 2 sz 2.5 slab avalanches which had released in the last 24 hours on the basal facets at alpine elevations. Control work with large explosives only produced small slides below treeline today.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Saturday

Regions covered