Avalanche forecast

Jasper

Feb 22 – 23, 2021
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Wed
Alpine
4 · High
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Icefields Parkway is now closed for Avalanche Control. Anticipated opening on Monday, Feb. 22 at 1800.

Check Alberta 511 for latest updates.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2

    Severe SW winds have stripped, and transported snow from many areas in the alpine and treeline.

  • Loose Dry

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–1.5

    Loose dry, spindrift avalanches remain a problem for ice climbers

Confidence

Wind effect is extremely variable on Monday

Weather Forecast

Most regions will continue to see westerly ridgetop winds of 70-90km/h. A cold front will push the heavier snow from north to south across the Rockies Sunday. Heavier snowfall will start in the evening with 5-10cm expected during the day, and up to 15cm on Highway 93. Freezing levels will remain near 1800m overnight throughout the Rockies.

Snowpack Summary

Moderate to strong ridge top winds from the SW have created wind slabs or hard surface conditions in alpine and tree line features. In sheltered areas the top 30-60cm is faceted snow over a supportive mid-pack where the snowpack is deeper. Thin snowpack areas are weak, un-supportive, and facetted.

Avalanche Summary

Field teams working in the Icefields and the Tonquin Valley today reporting severe winds, blowing snow, drifting and, poor visibility

Regions covered