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Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 16th, 2020–Dec 17th, 2020
Alpine
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable
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
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable
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
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable
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.

Traces of snow and wind will encourage new wind slab development in the alpine predominately but, possible in open and exposed treeline features.

Forecast looking promising for a snowy refresh through the region this weekend

Weather Forecast

Cloudy with scattered flurries over the next 48hrs with up to 6cm before Friday. Alpine temperatures, Low -11 C, High -8 C with gusty SW winds.

Snowpack Summary

Strong winds are creating wind slabs in the alpine and open treeline. The snowpack is generally supportive despite having a weaker, deep persistent base. Average depth is 55cm - 150cm depending on region and elevation.

Avalanche Summary

No new natural avalanche observations from the field team in the Icefields

Confidence

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Snow and moderate winds forming new slabs on leeward and cross-loaded terrain features. These slabs will probably not bond well to the current snow surface.

  • Minimize overhead exposure during periods of heavy loading from new snow, wind.
  • Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and roll-overs.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 2.5

Deep Persistent Slabs

Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations.

  • If triggered the wind slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.
  • Use caution in thin snowpack areas.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size: 1.5 - 3