Avalanche forecast

Jasper

Mar 19 – 20, 2016Parks Canada
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Archived · expired 11 years ago

Avalanche danger

Mon
Tue
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Solar influence, overhead cornice failure or isolated loading or cross-loading will affect the localized hazard as we approach spring like conditions. Generally, the hazard should remain Moderate and the riding is being reported as good.

Avalanche problems

  • Cornices

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–4
    First indicators of this problem showing up. Easy enough to avoid but, larger slides, triggered in the deep weaknesses can easily become a significant issue for groups traveling in the valley bottoms or run outs.

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible - Likely
    Size
    2–3
    This problem may still be a concern in the Whistler/Portal Creek area. It appears to be inactive in the Maligne and Icefields areas.

Weather Forecast

Expecting broken skies conditions on Sunday with light winds and freezing level to 2200 m. Expecting to see light snow/rain beginning by late afternoon.

Snowpack Summary

The snowpack is generally shallow and poorly consolidated, significant variation exists within the forecasting area. The persistent slab may still be active in the Portal Creek area. This layer could be trigger from thin spots on the slope (trees, rocks, etc). Alpine wind slab is present on lee slopes. Springlike conditions below tree-line.

Avalanche Summary

Significant large avalanches reported for field teams in the Icefields area. Appear that the most significant of which have been triggered by cornice failure up to sz 3.5 in the Alpine.

Confidence

Regions covered