Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 23rd, 2012 5:12PM

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

mike eder, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Extended sunny periods in the afternoon may increase the avalanche danger at all elevations

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain on Saturday

Problems

Persistent Slabs

The buried surface hoar layer remains a concern in areas that have not recently avalanched. Solar effect will weaken the bridging strength of the slab on exposed slopes.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Wind Slabs

Last week's snow was distributed by mostly moderate to strong winds into windslabs and cornices on North through Southeast aspects. Recent avalanches have started from rock bluffs or cornice failures and have triggered deeper weak layers.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Loose Wet

Surface snow is responding to the strong solar radiation effect that happens in March and April. Ice climbers should also be wary of large pillows of snow still overhanging routes on solar aspects.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Mar 24th, 2012 5:00PM