Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 7th, 2012 5:43PM

The alpine rating is considerable, the treeline rating is considerable, and the below treeline rating is considerable. Known problems include Persistent Slabs, Storm Slabs and Wind Slabs.

Landon Shepherd, Parks Canada

Jasper.

The surface hoar under the new storm snow remains touchy. People and solar effect are two likely triggers for new avalanches right now.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain

Problems

Persistent Slabs

The recent widespread avalanche cycle was the result of our Feb.14 surface hoar layer failing below the rapid load of new snow. Natural activity has declined partly because so many areas have already avalanched. Areas that have not are suspect!

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Storm Slabs

Strong solar radiation is tightening the recent storm snow on solar aspects into a cohesive slab. Forecast warm temps with continued solar effect is expected. Ice climbers on solar aspects should expect soft slabs and power sloughing in the PM.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Wind Slabs

Continued Mod-strong NW winds are creating wind slabs primarily in the alpine but also in exposed treeline locations. These slabs will be reactive even if they do not have preserved surface hoar beneath them.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Mar 8th, 2012 4:00PM