Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 4th, 2014 4:00PM

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

a.l. horton, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Warmer temperatures will encourage many to get out an enjoy the new snow. Keep in mind that the snowpack is still weak and needs more time before pushing into big terrain.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Temperatures continue to warm into the weekend. Cloudy skies will bring light precipitation and winds are expected to remain light from the south. Expect some light wind transport in exposed areas like ridgelines.

Snowpack Summary

Last weekends massive snowfall continues to settle prompting widespread whumphing in open treeline areas. Team had moderate test results (CTM11) on a facet layer above a crust near the base of the pack on an E facing 25 deg slope at 2000m (TL) in the Parkers Area. Alpine snowpack has more strength with hard results on a similar aspect at 2200m.

Avalanche Summary

No new observations along the Parkway today.

Confidence

Due to the number of field observations on Friday

Problems

Persistent Slabs

Storm snow has evolved into a persistent slab mainly around treeline. Widespread whumphing in open treeline areas was enough to keep our forecasting team on lower angle terrain without overhead exposure.

Carefully evaluate and use caution around thin snowpack areas.Assess start zones carefully and use safe travel techniques.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Loose Dry

Caution in steeper and rocky terrain especially on ice climbing terrain.

The volume of sluffing could knock you over; choose your climb carefully and belay when exposed.Avoid exposure to terrain traps where the consequences of a small avalanche could be serious.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 5th, 2014 4:00PM