Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Jasper.
A widespread avalanche cycle is expected over the next few days. Intense solar and rising freezing level with limited overnight recovery will continue to destabilize the snowpack. Do not assume low hazard early in the day during this transition.
Weather Forecast
A blocking ridge of high pressure over Northern BC and Alberta has initiated spring conditions into the region, including the Icefields Parkway. Positive daytime temperatures, light winds, strong solar and rising freezing level to as high as 3000m can be expected daily and for the near future.
Snowpack Summary
Transitioning into spring conditions. Southerly aspects expect a crust that will break down by late morning; northerly aspects TL and above may hold dry snow depending on freezing level. Persistent intense solar and warm temps will continue to destabilize snowpack structure increasing the likelihood of natural and human triggered avalanches.
Avalanche Summary
Patrols on 93 yesterday and today noted isolated slab avalanche activity northerly alpine aspects to size 3; one size three on Snowdome - deep slab 200m wide likely triggered by serac fall. These are good reminders that large slab avalanches up to size 3 are still occurring within the bulletin region from the alpine, traveling well into TL below.
Confidence
Avalanche Problems
Loose Wet
Keep an eye out for rising temperatures and strong solar radiation. Start early and finish early to avoid the highest hazard period, early afternoon through to dark.
- Use extra caution on solar slopes or if the snow is moist or wet.
- Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.
Aspects: South East, South, South West, West, North West.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood: Likely
Expected Size: 1 - 2
Cornices
Cornices will wake up with increasing temperatures, solar radiation and, will likely trigger deeper instabilities on the slope below. If you must travel near or below cornices, use good travel techniques and group management to reduce your exposure.
- Cornices become weak with daytime heating, so travel early on exposed slopes.
- Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices which could easily trigger persistent slabs.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible - Likely
Expected Size: 1.5 - 3.5
Deep Persistent Slabs
Forecasters are noting an increase in activity; seeing many larger slides, stepping down to ground or ice. Shallow snowpack areas and solar aspects have increased potential for human triggered and natural avalanches stepping to deeper layers.
- Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices which could easily trigger the deep persistent slab.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood: Possible - Likely
Expected Size: 2 - 3.5