Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 8th, 2016 4:00PM

The alpine rating is below threshold, the treeline rating is below threshold, and the below treeline rating is below threshold. Known problems include Deep Persistent Slabs, Loose Wet and Cornices.

a.l. horton, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Plan to travel early and be off big slopes by early afternoon.

Summary

Weather Forecast

A typical diurnal pattern is expected through the weekend with late afternoon freezing level limited to 2250m. A cooler day expected on Saturday with light winds and a mix of sun and clouds. Similar conditions on Sunday. Should be a beautiful weekend!

Snowpack Summary

A strong melt freeze crust will form Friday night after a very warm day. This crust will bridge a weak and isothermal snowpack on most tree-line and alpine slopes. This crust will break down with increasing temperatures and solar input. A persistent slab, 30 to 70cms thick, will be of greatest concern on Northerly aspects.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches observed at time of bulletin (15:30 hrs) but expecting continued solar and temperature triggered avalanches on all aspects and elevations.

Confidence

Problems

Deep Persistent Slabs

Cool temperatures over the weekend will reduce this problem but caution advised on slopes if hot sunny conditions are experienced.

Avoid shallow snowpack areas where triggering is more likely.Travel early on frozen crusts before the heat of the day.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Loose Wet

Will still be an issue on south facing slopes.

Be very cautious with gully features.Avoid sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong, especially if snow is moist or wet.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Cornices

Cornice failures is possible. Avoid slopes with cornices overhead.

Cornices become weak with daytime heating.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 9th, 2016 4:00PM