Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 17th, 2015 4:00PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Deep Persistent Slabs.

barb sharp, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Summary

Weather Forecast

The stable forecast with light winds, warm daytime temperatures and good overnight freezing will persist for a couple more days. Snow is forecasted for higher elevations (above 2000m) and rain at lower elevations on Friday.

Snowpack Summary

A strong rain crust forms the surface at treeline and below. Up to 35cm of storm snow overlies a variable snowpack above treeline. Soft wind slabs have formed on lee aspects as a result of previous, strong SW winds. The deep persistent weakness (basal facets and depth hoar) make up the base of the snowpack.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches observed.

Confidence

Due to the number of field observations

Problems

Wind Slabs

Soft slab conditions on lee alpine aspects appear to have bonded well in most locations. Approach these features with caution and test bonding on the slope from a safe area before committing.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

Large cornices or surface avalanches are the likely trigger for this layer.

If triggered the storm slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.Cornices become weak with daytime heating.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Mar 18th, 2015 4:00PM