Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Jan 4th, 2023 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Persistent Slabs and Deep Persistent Slabs.
DK,
Avalanche Canada
As we approach the weekend, light inputs of new snow and increasing winds are going to promote slab development over a persistent and reactive weakness. Practice conservative travel techniques, stay diligent, and be skeptical when considering dropping into any steep or open slopes.
Summary
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches observed or reported in the forecast region.
Snowpack Summary
Widespread SH growth in the 3 Valley Confluence around Jasper. The top 20-40cm is sitting on the active, persistent weakness (Dec 17 PWL), with varied slab density and some windslab development in open areas TL and above. Large facets, obvious in the lower snowpack make up the beginnings of the deep persistent weakness as part of the early season facet/depth hoar combo in the bottom of the snowpack. HS ranges from 50-120cm.
Weather Summary
A surface ridge continues to dominate the forecast through the end of the week. The ridge will weaken slightly on Thursday bringing increasing clouds and light precipitation leading into the weekend. Temperatures will be seasonal with a slight warming trend into the weekend.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- The trees are not a safe haven, travel at treeline requires expert knowledge and diligence.
- Make conservative terrain choices and avoid overhead hazard.
Problems
Persistent Slabs
A varied slab sits over the December 17th facet layer, 25-50cm down. This problem is significant at all elevations but most reactive in open tree line features and in the alpine where you can expect a stiffer, likely more reactive slab. If triggered, it is possible to step down to the deep persistent facets combo near the ground.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Deep Persistent Slabs
The bottom of the snow pack is inherently weak with well developed Facets and Depth Hoar. Avalanches initiating in the upper snowpack are likely to step down to this layer and gain significant mass.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Jan 5th, 2023 4:00PM
