Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 5th, 2012 4:00PM

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

Garth Lemke, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Up to 45 cm has fallen since Jan 1st with 35cm since yesterday. Winds were strong accompanying this storm. Give the new snow a couple of days to settle. Maligne lk rd and Icefields parkway are still closed and further avalanche control to occur.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Wind effect is extremely variable

Problems

Storm Slabs

45cm since Jan 1st with 35cm since yesterday. Initially rain below 1500 m. Moderate SW winds at ridgetops promoting slab development.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

2 - 3

Wind Slabs

Windslabs present in all sheltered lee features, evaluate local wind effect.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Deep Persistent Slabs

Cornices are large and precarious right now from winds and warm temperatures. Midpack strength is bridging this layer but the potential still exists if triggered, consequences would be severe.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Valid until: Jan 6th, 2012 4:00PM