Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 31st, 2014 4:00PM

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

steve blagbrough, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Cautious route finding is still recommended as you poke into more committing terrain. Despite the cold weather forecast - pleasant conditions can be found in the sun.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Cold conditions with no new snow in the forecast. Some drifting in exposed alpine elevations is likely in moderate to strong northerly winds.

Snowpack Summary

Previous wind slabs are providing bridging strength over a weak basal facet layer at treeline and alpine elevations. Extensive scouring of the snowpack has occurred in the high alpine. Reasonable ski conditions can be found in sheltered features at treeline and below.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches observed today.

Confidence

Problems

Deep Persistent Slabs

This layer is now bridged by a strong mid and upper snowpack but could still be triggered from shallow or rocky terrain.

Carefully evaluate and use caution around thin snowpack areas.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Wind Slabs

Strong northerly winds have redistributed snow onto isolated locations at treeline and alpine elevations.

Use caution in lee areas in the alpine and treeline. Recent storm snow has formed touchy slabs.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Feb 1st, 2014 4:00PM