Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Jan 24th, 2020 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs and Deep Persistent Slabs.
Jasper Snow Safety,
Parks Canada
The snowpack is highly variable so evaluate the snow and carefully manage your exposure in the terrain.
Summary
Weather Forecast
A steady SW flow will bring light winds and light precipitation to the region over the weekend with a pulse of 10 cm possible on Sunday night. Temps will cool slightly but remain above seasonal values For more detailed analysis: Mountain Weather Forecast
Snowpack Summary
The snowpack is highly variable across the forecast area. The surface snow is becoming more cohesive and is bonding well. The upper snowpack remains mainly facetted, particularly in shallow areas where there is less than 60cm of snow. There is inconsistent bridging in the mid-pack over the weak basal facets and depth hoar.
Avalanche Summary
No avalanche patrol today and no new avalanches 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
Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Sunday
Problems
Wind Slabs
Previous mod to strong SW winds have created new wind slabs, these are now buried by 10 cm of new snow in the Icefields area.
- If triggered the wind slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.
- Avoid lee and cross-loaded terrain near ridge crests.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, North West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Deep Persistent Slabs
This is a complex problem. The spacial variability and potential consequences of triggering a large avalanche on this layer makes it extremely difficult to gain confidence in the snowpack. Consider this before entering bigger features.
- Avoid convexities or areas with a thin or variable snowpack.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Jan 25th, 2020 4:00PM
