Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 12th, 2016 4:00PM

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

deryl kelly, Parks Canada

Jasper.

This persistent weakness will be with us for the rest of the season. Travel accordingly.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Cool temps, freezing level dropping and gusting SW-ly ridge top winds. Precip forecasted overnight (4-6cm in Icefields; trace amounts in Maligne) but to be perfectly honest, I'll believe it when I see it.

Snowpack Summary

Maligne/Jasper: Variable snow depth above tree-line, relative to exposure. Average HS 70cm. Surface wind slabs and persistent slab down 40-90cm. Icefields: Variable snow depth above tree-line, relative to exposure. Average HS 120cm. Widespread wind slabs overlaying supportive mid pack and weak base.

Avalanche Summary

Previously noted size 2 slab avalanches on cross-loaded Alpine features, west aspect. Significant whining and moaning from travel partners once you step off the beaten track BTL in the Maligne valley, as well as whumphing and cracking.

Confidence

Problems

Persistent Slabs

This problem was most active in the Maligne and surrounding Jasper area where the average snow pack is shallow but is proving much less active in the Icefields area.

Remote triggering is a concern, watch out for adjacent slopes.Avoid shallow snowpack areas where triggering is more likely.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Wind Slabs

Uniform wind slab has formed on most lee alpine and tree line slopes and cross-loaded features.

Caution in lee and cross-loaded terrain near ridge crests.Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Mar 13th, 2016 5:00PM