Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 1st, 2017 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 Loose Dry.

deryl kelly, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Spectacular winter day in the mountains.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Spectacular day in the sun today; less fun but, equally spectacular in the shade! Light northerly winds, increasing pressure, blue skies and arctic temps through the week.

Snowpack Summary

Strong SW winds have built thin windslabs on all lee alpine slopes. Slab thickness varies from 20 to 50 cm. There is a weak bond between these new slabs and the hard slab below. The mid-pack to ground is weak and faceted.

Avalanche Summary

No reports of avalanches today.

Confidence

Problems

Wind Slabs

Big open features, cross-loaded gulleys and ice climbs below significant overhead hazard should be avoided as the weak bond between layers strengthens.

Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.Use caution above cliffs where small avalanches may have severe consequences.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Loose Dry

Faceted snow may be triggered on steep solar aspects.

Be cautious of sluffing in steep terrain.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Feb 2nd, 2017 4:00PM