Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 23rd, 2014–Dec 24th, 2014

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable

Below Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be considerable

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Regions: Jasper.

A moist pacific weather system will generate significant snowfall amounts through Tuesday night into Wednesday morning at higher elevations.

Weather Forecast

Heavy snowfall warning in effect for the high mountain passes on Tuesday night with 15-20cm accompanied by strong South Westerly winds.

Snowpack Summary

Wind slab forming on lee alpine ridge lines. Large surface hoar crystals formed last week are being buried by new snow. This layer is more likely to be found on sheltered slopes at tree line and below The interface between the strong mid-pack and weaker basal facets is most susceptible to human triggering from shallow rocky areas.

Avalanche Summary

No avalanches observed today.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Wednesday

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind loading producing slabs on lee and cross loaded features at all elevations. Field teams today experienced cracking and whumphing in the new wind slab.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

This weak layer exists below a strong mid-pack at treeline and sub-alpine elevations. Field teams are still experiencing the occasional whumph from this layer. Surface slides or cornice collapse could trigger this deep persistent weakness.

Carefully evaluate and use caution around thin snowpack areas.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3