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Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Jan 5th, 2013–Jan 6th, 2013
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: Jasper.

Little change in weather and snowpack this weekend.  Cornice failure is a concern although we have not seen evidence as of yet.  Stay well back from corniced ridge lines.

Weather Forecast

The weather on Sunday will be cloudy with snow flurries throughout the day producing light accumulation (5-10 cm).  Winds will be moderate to strong from the West and temperatures will be seasonable.

Snowpack Summary

The snowpack is faceting and losing strength especially in shallow areas.  At tree line and above, the mid-pack is generally supportive where the snow depth is greater than a meter.  Wind slabs are present in lee features at upper elevations. Surface hoar is developing with the cool overnight temperatures and light valley bottom winds.

Avalanche Summary

Avalanche patrols were conducted on both the Maligne Road and the Icefields Parkway.  No new avalanches were observed.

Confidence

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs can be found above tree line in exposed terrain. These slabs have been unreactive to skier traffic, however, it is still possible to trigger a slab in steep unsupported terrain.
Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3

Loose Dry

Loose snow avalanches are likely on steep thin slopes and in gulley features. 
Be cautious of sluffing in steep terrain.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 2