Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Jasper.
Incremental new snow in the forecast. Be wary of solar aspects late in the day when crusts may begin to break down.
Click the "More Spring Conditions details" link below for more info on the varying spring condition scenarios.
Weather Forecast
Isolated flurries beginning Friday night into Saturday intermixed with sunny periods; freezing level rising to 1800m Saturday. Freezing level dropping to valley bottom overnight. Continued mix of sun and flurries on Sunday with freezing level reaching 1600m. Possibility of up to 10cm accumulating by Sunday in the Icefields area.
Snowpack Summary
Expect a trace on a supportive melt-freeze crust on all aspects and elevations except for most high Northerly where it may be dry and powdery. The mid-pack is thick and supportive. Weak faceted crystals linger at the bottom of the snowpack and remain a concern particularly in shallow snow-packs or northerly alpine aspects.
Avalanche Summary
No patrol occurred on Friday and nothing new was reported. Avalanche activity has tapered off with good overnight freezing, cooler daytime temps and less solar input.
Confidence
Avalanche Problems
Loose Wet
Start early to avoid this problem. Cooler temperatures, cold nights, chilly winds and intermittent cloud cover will make this less of a concern the next couple of days. Be vigilant for an increase in activity if the sun makes an appearance.
- Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.
Aspects: South East, South, South West, West.
Elevations: Below Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 2
Cornices
These features are large, dense and heavy and will possibly trigger the deeper instability on the slope below. If you must travel near or below cornices, use good travel techniques and group management to reduce exposure.
- Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices which could easily trigger persistent slabs.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible
Expected Size: 1.5 - 3.5
Persistent Slabs
Shallow snowpack areas in the alpine and some treeline locations have the potential for human triggered and natural avalanches stepping to deeper layers if you get it wrong. This will most likely be a problem shallow northerly alpine terrain.
- Choose regroup spots carefully.
Aspects: North, North East, East, North West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible
Expected Size: 1.5 - 3