Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 23rd, 2016 4:00PM

The alpine rating is below threshold, the treeline rating is below threshold, and the below treeline rating is below threshold. Known problems include Deep Persistent Slabs, Loose Wet and Cornices.

a.l. horton, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Cloudy conditions with showers on Sunday.Â Freezing levels staying above 2500m then falling to ~2000m by Monday.

Snowpack Summary

A very weak snowpack with isothermal conditions well into the alpine on all aspects due to prolonged +3000m freezing level. The persistent slab problem still exists on north facing alpine slopes in specific locations. Expecting a weak overnight recovery above 2500m.

Avalanche Summary

Widespread loose wet and wet slab avalanches from size 2-3 observed along the Parkway on Saturday, many initiated by cornice failure. Glide cracks appearing on steep NE terrain. The end of the 2016 ski season is nigh!!

Confidence

Problems

Deep Persistent Slabs

This problem primarily remains on alpine slopes as much of the lower snowpack has either melted or is now isothermal.

Travel early on frozen crusts before the heat of the day.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

3 - 4

Loose Wet

Wet avalanches are now more frequent on N to NE aspects as snowpack continues to deteriorate.

Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Cornices

Numerous cornice failures observed and likely to continue. These have been triggering isothermal avalanches to size 3.

Extra caution needed around cornices with current conditions.Even small cornice falls may trigger larger avalanches.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Likely - Very Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 24th, 2016 4:00PM