Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 18th, 2014 4:00PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Deep Persistent Slabs and Wind Slabs.

barb sharp, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Although the snowpack continues to strengthen, it is possible to trigger large avalanches from shallow areas.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Total snowfall amount of 10cm is expected over the next few days, with light winds and seasonal temperatures.

Snowpack Summary

Surface Hoar continues to form. A strong mid-pack overlies approximately 20-40cm of facets. Isolated wind slabs still exist in open areas at tree line and alpine elevations. The interface between the mid-pack and facets is most susceptible to human triggering from shallow areas.

Avalanche Summary

Limited observations today. There is past evidence of large deep slides in wind loaded features that released in the last cycle.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Saturday

Problems

Deep Persistent Slabs

These deep persistent slabs at tree line and sheltered alpine slopes may be triggered from shallow areas within the snowpack.

Carefully evaluate and use caution around thin snowpack areas.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Wind Slabs

Approach loaded, cross-loaded and re-loaded lee features with caution.

Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.If triggered the wind slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 19th, 2014 4:00PM