Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Jasper.
Lots of changes happening to the snow pack this week. Temperatures took a positive jump, consistent SW winds, sporadic rain and irregular, strong solar effect.
Evaluate the snow, and manage your exposure in the terrain carefully.
Weather Forecast
A steady SW flow will bring continued mild temps and light precipitation to the region over the day with a modest increase in freezing levels to near treeline. For more detailed analysis: Mountain Weather Forecast
Snowpack Summary
The surface snow has become more cohesive and is bonding to the previous surfaces as it settles with mild temperatures. The upper snowpack remains mainly facetted particularly in shallow areas where there is less than 60cm height of snow. There is inconsistent bridging in the mid-pack over the weak basal facets and depth hoar.
Avalanche Summary
Thursday's field patrol in Icefields had poor visibility, no new natural activity was reported. Wednesday's helicopter flight observed only two recent large cornice failures that initiated avalanches in the weak basal facets and one windslab avalanche.
Confidence
Freezing levels are uncertain on Friday
Avalanche Problems
Wind Slabs
Consistent moderate SW winds.
- Avoid lee and cross-loaded terrain near ridge crests.
- If triggered the wind slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, North West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 2
Deep Persistent Slabs
This is a complex problem. The spacial variability and potential consequences of triggering a large avalanche make this extremely difficult to gain confidence in the snowpack bridging this weakness. Caution and good travel habits are always advised.
- Avoid convexities or areas with a thin or variable snowpack.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 2 - 3