Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 25th, 2015 4:00PM

The alpine rating is below threshold, the treeline rating is below threshold, and the below treeline rating is below threshold. Known problems include Cornices, Loose Wet and Deep Persistent Slabs.

max darrah, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Great skiing can still be found in the alpine! Timing is key this time of year - start early and enjoy the heat of the day from your favorite patio.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Springtime sunshine and good overnight recovery (below freezing temperatures) expected to continue through until the end of April. Freezing levels to reach 2500m during the day and may extend up to 2900m on Tuesday. Some models indicate that the Columbia Icefields Area could receive up to 30cm starting mid-week and continuing through the weekend.

Snowpack Summary

LIght scattered snowfall (drainage dependent) on supportive melt-freeze crust/mid-pack. Deep weak layers dormant when temperatures are below freezing but may be triggered as temperatures rise. Snowpack becoming non-supportive and isothermal during warmest part of the day on solar aspects and lower elevations.

Avalanche Summary

Numerous loose wet avalanches expected with daytime heating, particularly on steep solar aspects and steep terrain at lower elevations.

Confidence

Problems

Cornices

Give cornices a wide berth when travelling on or below ridges.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Loose Wet

Natural loose wet activity expected during the heat of the day, particularly on steep solar aspects.

Start and finish early before the surface crusts melt.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

Low probability but still a concern in big terrain during the heat of the day or with big triggers (cornice fall).

Start and finish early before the surface crusts melt.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Apr 26th, 2015 4:00PM