Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 18th, 2014 4:00PM

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

steve blagbrough, Parks Canada

Jasper.

The main concern is the buried surface hoar, facet, crust combo layer found predominantly at tree line and sub alpine elevations 'Whumphing' is being reported from this persistent weak layer (PWL).

Summary

Weather Forecast

Some snow showers (10cm) is forecast for the southern end of our forecasting area and is accompanied by light southerly winds. This should do little to change our present avalanche hazard.

Snowpack Summary

Recent snowfall overlies a surface hoar, surface facet and crust combo, found predominantly at tree line and sub alpine elevationsÂ A relatively hard mid-pack is providing bridging strength over the weak basal facet layer. Below tree line has a supportive (albeit shallow) mid-pack.

Avalanche Summary

Yesterday - there was no natural activity observed between Jasper and The Big Bend and only limited results with the Avalauncher at Parkers Ridge (tree line elevation).

Confidence

Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain

Problems

Persistent Slabs

The interface between rapidly settling storm snow and the previous surface is characterized by crusts. facets and surface hoar. New slabs are touchy in specific terrain - particularly steep, lee aspects at treeline and sub alpine elevations.

Avoid exposure to terrain traps where the consequences of a small avalanche could be serious.Assess start zones carefully and use safe travel techniques.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Wind Slabs

Recent southerly winds have created new windslabs. Caution is warranted with lee and crossloaded features.

Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.Avoid freshly wind loaded features.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Feb 19th, 2014 4:00PM