Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 17th, 2012 4:00PM

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

steve blake, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Conditions are improving but large, unsupported slopes should be carefully evaluated before you commit.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain

Problems

Storm Slabs

Variable winds in alpine areas continue to form slabs on lee aspects. We've seen 70+cm of new snow since March 12th. Triggering the storm slab has the potential to step down to deeper instabilities.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Persistent Slabs

The buried surface hoar layer remains a concern. While natural activity is reduced slopes that did not slide during early March should be treated with extra caution.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Loose Wet

As the spring season arrives even short periods of direct sun can have dramatic effect on the snow stability on solar aspects. Watch for increased loose snow avalanche activity during the heat of the day.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Mar 18th, 2012 4:00PM