Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Jan 28th, 2020 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs and Deep Persistent Slabs.
Jasper Snow Safety,
Parks Canada
When dealing with a complicated snowpack stick to easily solvable, moderate terrain and build confidence over time. This advice will be even more important when snow arrives on Friday.
Summary
Weather Forecast
Unsettled weather continues bringing some light snow and fluctuating freezing levels. Winds ramp up on Wednesday with the approach of a storm system.
For more detailed analysis: Mountain Weather Forecast
Snowpack Summary
The snowpack is highly variable across the forecast region but remains mainly facetted, particularly in shallow areas. There is inconsistent bridging in the mid-pack over the weak basal facets and depth hoar.
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches observed or reported.
Confidence
Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Friday
Problems
Wind Slabs
Continued building of new windslabs through the region. Most prominent on N through E aspects due to SW winds but riders should be wary of obvious wind effect and surface clues on all exposed or potentially cross-loaded slopes at treeline and above.
- If triggered the wind slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.
- Avoid lee and cross-loaded terrain near ridge crests.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, North West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Deep Persistent Slabs
This is a complex problem. The spacial variability and potential consequences of triggering a large avalanche on this layer makes it extremely difficult to gain confidence in the snowpack. Consider this before entering bigger features.
- Avoid convexities or areas with a thin or variable snowpack.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Jan 29th, 2020 4:00PM
