Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 4th, 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.

With snow expected for the next few days, please click the "More Spring Conditions details" button and read "Spring Conditions Scenario 1: Cold and Snowy". The "Terrain and Travel Advice" section will help guide your decision making.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Up to 20 cm of snow expected with cool temperatures and moderate SW winds.Â Dramatic change on Thursday with rising freezing levels and intense solar radiation.

Snowpack Summary

The freezing level is dropping BTL (1200 m) developing a strengthening melt freeze crust at tree-line and above. Expecting up to 10 cm of snow by Tuesday afternoon. Isothermal continuing conditions below tree-line (BLT). The deep persistent slab problem still the biggest concern on North alpine aspects. BTL becoming below threshold in most areas.

Avalanche Summary

No recent reports or observations today (no avalanche patrol).Â Point releases and wet slab avalanches have been observed to size 3 running at all elevations primarily on solar aspects. Fewer slides are occurring on northerly terrain. Ice climbs are cracking and collapsing because of the warm temps.

Confidence

Problems

Deep Persistent Slabs

Cooling temperatures will reduce the likelihood of triggering this problem. Shallow areas are likely trigger spots.

Avoid shallow snowpack areas where triggering is more likely.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Loose Wet

Be observant of overnight freezing temperatures relative to degree of surface freezing.

Watch for clues, like sluffing off of cliffs, that the snowpack is warming up. Be very cautious with gully features.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Cornices

Cornice failures are becoming more frequent lately. New snow and moderate West winds will increase size.

Cornices become weak with daytime heating.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 5th, 2016 4:00PM