Avalanche Forecast

Issued: May 2nd, 2012 4:00PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is moderate. Known problems include Loose Wet and Deep Persistent Slabs.

mike eder, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Mild temperatures and rain are expected through the weekend. Combined with a poor overnight freeze, this may further weaken the snowpack and increase the avalanche danger at treeline and below during the day.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain

Problems

Loose Wet

Expect the firm melt freeze crust to deteriorate rapidly with the warm rainy conditions which are in the forecast through the weekend. Loose snow avalanches are possible below treeline if we receive heavier than predicted showers.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

Large triggers such as cornice failure or serac fall can trigger very large avalanches. Recently, an ice fall released a large slab avalanche on a steep north facing glacial slope on Mt Andromeda.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Valid until: May 3rd, 2012 4:00PM