Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Jasper.
Heightened avalanche hazard can exist in the Alpine all summer particularly after new snowfall. Be informed and prepared. Use the weather stations, Mountain Conditions Report, Mountain Information Network, or call Visitor Safety at 780-852-6155.
Weather Forecast
The mountain weather forecast is a good source for detailed weather (https://avalanche.ca/weather/forecast) . Other sites include Environment Canada, Mountain Weather, and Spot.
Snowpack Summary
Generally, danger increases with daytime warming and decreases with cold nights particularly if it freezes. Snow bridges over crevasses weaken as the snow thins through the summer thus use extra caution when crossing glaciers. Be vigilant for newly formed windslabs and increasing natural avalanche activity.
Avalanche Summary
Activity increases with rising temperatures especially during warm and sunny afternoons. Use caution if the surface has not frozen overnight. Watch for wind slabs in the alpine particularly following fresh snowfall forming above pre-existing crusts. Cornices can be large and dangerous if you get too close to the edge thus avoidance is key.
Confidence
Avalanche Problems
Loose Wet
When the sun comes out, temperatures go above freezing, or rain occurs, expect wet avalanches. This is especially relevant in steep, high consequence terrain, such as gully's on Mt Andromeda, Mt Edith Cavell, and Mt Wooly/Diadem.
- Use caution above cliffs and terrain traps where small avalanches may have severe consequences.
- Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Likely
Expected Size: 1 - 2.5
Cornices
Give large cornices a wide buffer and do not approach the edge or spend time below. They can extend and fail further back than you expect. They tend to get weaker depending on the heat of the day but no guarantees.
- Cornices become weak with daytime heating, so travel early on exposed slopes.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 3
Wind Slabs
New Alpine snow can rapidly develop into a wind slab problem at any time of the year. Avalanches of this nature have occurred on the ramp route and Silverhorn of Mt Athabasca plus other high peaks in the area.
- Watch for signs of instability such as whumpfing, or cracking.
- The new snow will require several days to settle and stabilize.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 3