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.
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
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
