Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 30th, 2015 4:00PM

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

steve blagbrough, Parks Canada

Jasper.

If the sun pokes out it can pack a punch this time of year and change snow conditions rapidly. Take advantage of early starts and be prepared to turn around.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Cooler conditions for the next few days will be accompanied by snow showers and moderate westerly winds. Some weather models are calling for more snow in the Icefields area towards the end of the week.

Snowpack Summary

The warming and cooling cycle has created a temperature crust on all aspects up to 2500m. Below this crust, a variety of layers exist with a weak basal facet layer being present in most areas at treeline and above. Any remaining snow on solar aspects below tree line has gone isothermal.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches observed or reported in the forecast area today. The size 3 slab on Mt. Saskatchewan that failed last week on the basal facet layer highlights the serious issue that this lingering deep persistent weakness presents.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Thursday

Problems

Wind Slabs

Fresh wind slabs are likely on lee aspects and cross loaded features in high alpine locations.

Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

Large cornices or surface avalanches are the likely trigger.

Be aware of thin areas that may propogate to deeper instabilites.Give cornices a wide berth when travelling on or below ridges.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Mar 31st, 2015 4:00PM