Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 29th, 2015 4:00PM

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

tim mcallister, 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 ready to turn around,

Summary

Weather Forecast

Seasonal temperatures will linger for the next few days as clouds keep the sun at bay. Flurries are expected but not much accumulation. Light winds from the south and southwest are expected.

Snowpack Summary

Warming and cooling cycle is creating a temperature crust on all aspects up to 2500m. Below this crust, a variety of layers exist with the 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

The loose wet avalanche cycle that occurred on Friday has abated because of cooler temps and cloud cover. The size 3 slab on Mt. Saskatchewan that failed on the basal facet layer highlights the issue of this lingering deep persistent weakness.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Tuesday

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.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

Large cornices or surface avalanches are the likely trigger.

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

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Mar 30th, 2015 4:00PM