Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 31st, 2015 4:00PM

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

steve blagbrough, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Cooling trend with further showers falling as snow over higher elevations and moderate westerly winds. Cornices on lee aspects will continue to grow with this loading pattern.

Snowpack Summary

The warming and cooling cycle has created a temperature crust on all aspects up to 2500m. Below this crust, a variety of layers exist with a weak basal facet layer being present in most areas at treeline and above. Any remaining snow on solar aspects below tree line has gone isothermal. Large cornices exist at ridge line.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches observed or reported in the forecast area today.

Confidence

Problems

Wind Slabs

Windslabs can be found on lee aspects and cross loaded features at treeline and above.

Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Loose Wet

Heavy rain at lower elevations has soaked any remaining snow left at below treeline elevations, thereby increasing the risk of loose wet slides. The cooling trend should help 'tighten' up the snow at this elevation over the next few days.

Avoid sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong, especially if snow is moist or wet.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

Large cornices or surface avalanches are the likely trigger for this deep persistent weak layer.

Give cornices a wide berth when travelling on or below ridges.Be aware of thin areas that may propogate to deeper instabilites.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Apr 1st, 2015 4:00PM