Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 16th, 2016 4:00PM

The alpine rating is low, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Loose Dry and Persistent Slabs.

deryl kelly, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Brittle ice continues to provide lacerations and stitches for climbers. Carefully evaluate fragile freestanding pillars, detached features and hanging hazards.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Temperatures beginning to warm, albeit slowly. Increased clouds and alpine temperatures near -20. No precip expected for Saturday and trace amounts Sunday. Shifting winds, light to near moderate speeds from the North to the West and Southwest will still keep wind chill values high for the weekend.

Snowpack Summary

Cold temps are promoting facetting in the snowpack breaking down surface tension and support, especially below 2100ms. Where HS is shallow, expect to be on the ground. Deeper snowpack areas have faceted top down to the Nov12 crust (down 45 to 90cm). This continues to provide support and, for those braving the cold, good turns in sheltered areas.Â

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches observed or reported.

Confidence

Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Monday

Problems

Loose Dry

Cold temps have weakened the snow clinging to steep terrain, and as a result shedding and sluffing should be expected.

Avoid travelling on ledges and cliffs where sluffing may have severe consequences.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Persistent Slabs

Although this layer has been dormant, it is still a concern and is widespread between 2100-2600m.

Be cautious in shallow snowpack areas where triggering is more likely.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Dec 17th, 2016 4:00PM