Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 8th, 2014 4:24PM

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

steve blagbrough, Parks Canada

Jasper.

The avalanche hazard is trending up this week as the new snowfall is likely to build new storm slabs and potentially overload existing weaknesses in the snowpack.

Summary

Weather Forecast

A forecast of snow, moderate south westerly winds and milder temperatures will lead to the accumulation of slab at alpine and treeline elevations. Rain is likely below treeline.

Snowpack Summary

Warm temps are reaching into the alpine and are promoting settlement of last week's storm snow. Isolated windslab can be found in exposed areas in the alpine. The main concern is the interface between the settled storm snow and several crusts near the bottom of the snowpack. This interface is producing widespread whumphing at treeline.

Avalanche Summary

No field patrols today.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Tuesday

Problems

Persistent Slabs

Storm snow has evolved into a persistent slab mainly around treeline and sheltered alpine slopes. Widespread whumphing in open treeline areas. Propagation from whumphing is possible on steep unsupported slopes.

Carefully evaluate and use caution around thin snowpack areas.Assess start zones carefully and use safe travel techniques.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Wind Slabs

These slabs are found in sheltered locations, predominantly in high alpine locations.

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

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 9th, 2014 4:00PM