Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 31st, 2017 4:00PM

The alpine rating is considerable, the treeline rating is considerable, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Loose Dry.

deryl kelly, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Summary

Weather Forecast

The strong, gusty winds subside and shift from SW to North. Increasing pressure, gorgeous blue skies and arctic temps to dominate the forecast through the week.

Snowpack Summary

14.5cm of storm snow, re-distributed by steady moderate to strong SW winds, loading N to NE aspects on an already stressed facet interface down between 20 to 50cm. Hard windslab over a weak mid-pack, over an even weaker facet and depth hoar base to ground.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches observed or reported.

Confidence

Problems

Wind Slabs

Big open features and climbs with significant overhead hazard should be avoided until the weak bond between layers strengthens.

Use caution above cliffs where small avalanches may have severe consequences.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

2 - 3

Loose Dry

Wind loading and shedding from steep faces, especially concerning for ice climbers.

Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Feb 1st, 2017 4:00PM