Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 20th, 2014 4:00PM

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

steve blagbrough, Parks Canada

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.

Summary

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

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

Valid until: Dec 21st, 2014 4:00PM