Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 29th, 2014 4:44PM

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

deryl kelly, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Ice climbers should pay attention to slab development in cross loaded gullies. Skiers should look for and avoid fresh windslabs just below ridge crests that have a South facing aspect.

Summary

Weather Forecast

The weather will remain cold and clear to the end of the year and will start clouding over for New Year's eve. However, the clouds will be stingy and will produce only a light snowfall to bring in 2015. Winds will continue from the North for the next few days. More snow is expected into the weekend.

Snowpack Summary

North winds are forming new wind slabs by reverse loading S-SE aspects near ridge crests and cross-loaded gully features. A Shallow low density upper snowpack sits on a strong, supportive mid-pack which is bridging a weaker facet base.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanche activity reported in the forecast area. There was good visibility into the alpine from Jasper to Saskatchewan crossing.

Confidence

The weather pattern is stable on Tuesday

Problems

Wind Slabs

Northerly winds reverse loading cross-loaded gulley features and South sides of ridge crests.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.Avoid travelling in areas that have been reverse loaded by winds.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

This weak layer exists below a strong mid-pack at treeline and sub-alpine elevations. Large loads such as a cornice collapse could trigger this deep persistent weakness. The cold temperatures will be having a facetting effect on shallow locations.

Carefully evaluate and use caution around thin snowpack areas.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Dec 30th, 2014 4:00PM