Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 3rd, 2015 4:15PM

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

a.l. horton, Parks Canada

Jasper.

20 cm of snow with Strong East winds will create a reverse loading condition on south and westerly aspects. This is an unusual situation so greater care is needed on familiar slopes.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Up to 20 cm of snow predicted for Saturday with moderate to Strong East winds in the Alpine. Clear skies on Sunday with light winds and seasonal temperatures.

Snowpack Summary

Pockets of wind pressed soft slabs were observed in the Parkers Area on Northerly aspects at alpine and treeline elevations. 3-5 cm of fluffy snow over a temperature crust can be found on all aspects tree line and above to 2500m. A supportive midpack sits over a weak basal facet layer in most areas at treeline and above.

Avalanche Summary

A few small point release avalanches at treeline observed on Good Friday. Of note, a large serac fall off Mt. Athabasca failed to initiate an avalanche.

Confidence

Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Saturday

Problems

Wind Slabs

20 cm of snow possible with strong East winds will create a reverse loading condition in the Alpine.

Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.Avoid travelling in areas that have been reverse loaded by winds.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

Large cornices or surface avalanches are the likely trigger for this deep persistent weak layer.

Be aware of thin areas that may propogate to deeper instabilites.Give cornices a wide berth when travelling on or below ridges.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Apr 4th, 2015 4:00PM