Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Jan 11th, 2021 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs and Persistent Slabs.
Deryl Kelly,
The region is primed and overdue for a significant avalanche cycle.
New snowfall and strong SW winds forecast for the next two days. Be extra cautious, especially in open areas though-out the region.
Summary
Weather Forecast
A strong, moisture laced, southwest flow continues to provide steady snowfall in the Jasper forecast region, especially in the Columbia Icefields. Strong SW winds continue to build reactive wind-slabs on N through E aspects. Forecasts calling for a further 15cm for Tuesday, and 17cm Wednesday. Temps steady between -12 and -8, warming up by Weds.Â
Snowpack Summary
Strong SW winds have been aggressively distributing surface snow on N through E aspects, at all elevations but especially in the alpine and open tree-line. The mid-pack is supportive except in shallow locations and regions like the Maligne range. The bottom is weak facets and depth hoar.
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanche activity observed or reported.
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Confidence
Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain on Wednesday
Problems
Wind Slabs
Ongoing Strong to Extreme SW winds continue to form wind slabs at treeline and above. They appear to be stubborn with only a few natural avalanches observed but, be vigilant as likelihood of human triggering is rising with new precipitation.
- Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading has created reactive slabs.
- If triggered the storm/wind slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Persistent Slabs
Use caution around thin to thick areas where buried deeper weak layers could be triggered. The surface hoar layer down 40-70cm seems unreactive and spotty distribution but keep it on your radar.
- Dig down to find and test weak layers before committing to a line.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Treeline, Below Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Jan 12th, 2021 4:00PM
