Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 20th, 2014–Dec 21st, 2014

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: Jasper.

Cold and clear conditions have led to the development of large surface hoar crystals that may provide the next weak layer in the snowpack if and when we get any significant precipitation.

Weather Forecast

Some snow flurries and moderate South Westerly are forecast for the Columbia Icefields area overnight and into Sunday.

Snowpack Summary

Cold and clear conditions have led to the development of large surface hoar crystals that may provide the next weak layer in the snowpack if and when we get any significant precipitation and slab build up. The interface between the strong mid-pack and weaker basal facets is most susceptible to human triggering from shallow rocky areas.

Avalanche Summary

No avalanches reported today.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Sunday

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Light snowfall and moderate SW through into Sunday will lead to the development of wind slabs on sheltered aspects. Any significant accumulations that overly existing surface hoar crystals could produce touchy conditions in a few isolated areas.

Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible - Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

The interface between the strong mid-pack and weaker basal facets is most susceptible to human triggering from shallow rocky areas.

Carefully evaluate and use caution around thin snowpack areas.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3