Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 13th, 2015 4:00PM

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

garth lemke, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Still winter here as more snow expected tomorrow morning. Strong winds have developed windslab conditions on lee aspects in the alpine. Monitor the incoming storm input for additional load.

Summary

Weather Forecast

A pulse of snow is expected Tuesday am but models are not agreeing to the precise amount. Could be 5-15cm depending on local influences. Winds will be light from NW. Freezing levels will be 1800m on Tuesday then a good freeze Tuesday night followed by cool temperatures on Wednesday.

Snowpack Summary

15cm to 20cm of recent storm snow has been whipped up by moderate winds into a windslab condition. This rests on a supportive temperature crust which exists up to 2500m. Weak basal facets are bridged by a strong mid-pack in most areas at treeline and above.

Avalanche Summary

Three cornice failures were noted today. One initiated a size 2 slab on Parkers ridge.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Tuesday

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs have formed on lee slopes and cross loaded features at alpine and exposed tree line elevations.

Avoid cross loaded slopes at or above treeline.Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Cornices

Cornice are large and ominous. Give them a wide berth whenever possible. Current winds will continue to build their mass.

Extra caution needed around cornices with current conditions.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 14th, 2015 4:00PM