Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 27th, 2019 4:49PM

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

Ruari Macfarlane, Parks Canada

Jasper.

New snowfall Sunday was variable across the Park; the Storm Slab problem will vary accordingly. Use caution on steep slopes, particularly if the new snow is catching sun or over a hard surface.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Monday will be clear, no new snow, Treeline Low -15, Hi -10, with NW winds easing to Light. Temperatures slowly rise into the -5 to -10 range over the next two days, with little cloud, wind or snowfall forecast.A detailed mountain weather forecast is available from Avalanche Canada.

Snowpack Summary

5-10cm new snow fell on Sunday with NW winds, over hard surfaces in wind exposed Alpine terrain, and on steep solar aspects. A layer of weak surface hoar is now buried 15-20cm deep. Below, a strong mid-pack sits over weak, large facets and depth-hoar in the lower third of the snowpack (giving sudden results in snowpack testing Saturday).

Avalanche Summary

No avalanches reported Sunday, in poor visibility.Saturday's patrol noted a couple of size 1 Loose Wet avalanches on steep, solar aspect terrain, failing during warm temperatures and sunshine.Be part of the forecasting team - share what you've seen HERE, on the Mountain Information Network!

Confidence

Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain

Problems

Deep Persistent Slabs

Despite lack of recent natural activity, this layer is widespread, and would have high consequences if triggered. Triggering is most likely in thin areas, with variable snowpack depth. Use terrain choice and safe practices to minimize consequences.

Ride slopes one at a time and spot for your partners from safe locations.Avoid thin, rocky or unsupported slopes.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1.5 - 3.5

Storm Slabs

Variable accumulation of fresh snow Sunday with gusty NW winds has created small, reactive storm slabs, particularly where loaded by NW winds, over a variety of surfaces from suncrust, surface hoar and wind pressed areas.

Be increasingly cautious on sun exposed slopes.Use caution in lee areas in the alpine and treeline. Storm snow will form slabs.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 1.5

Valid until: Jan 28th, 2019 4:00PM