Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 1st, 2016 4:00PM

The alpine rating is low, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Loose Dry and Wind Slabs.

deryl kelly, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Although the Avalanche Hazard is Low, Ice Climbers should be cautious on steep solar exposed gulleys and the potential of overhead hazard. A temperature inversion and solar input is triggering loose snow avalanches in this terrain.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Blocking high pressure and connected ridge is deflecting all weather systems. A strong temp inversion will peak on Saturday with alpine temps well above freezing expected. Valley bottom temps will remain cold. All temps begin to slide as the new week begins and no precipitation in the near future.

Snowpack Summary

Variable wind slab in open or exposed terrain. Sun crust forming on steep solar aspects due to warm alpine temperatures. In most areas the snowpack = Surface facets on a supportive mid-pack that is bridging basal facets.

Avalanche Summary

Numerous loose snow avalanches to size 1 observed along the Icefields Parkway Thursday afternoon on steep solar exposed gulleys (ice climbs).

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain

Problems

Loose Dry

Solar triggered sluffs entraining loose snow in steep solar facing gulleys.

Avoid ice climbs exposed to steep rocky terrain on solar aspects during the middle of the day.

Aspects: North, North East.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs can be expected to be most developed in the alpine and open tree-line ridge tops.

Avoid steep slopes below cornices.Caution in lee and cross-loaded terrain near ridge crests.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Jan 2nd, 2016 4:00PM