Avalanche forecast

Jasper

Dec 23 – 24, 2014Parks Canada
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Archived · expired 12 years ago

Avalanche danger

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

The timing and intensity of this next system is a little uncertain. Any significant snow or wind event through the day on Tuesday could increase the hazard of slab avalanches on lee aspects at alpine and treeline elevations.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible - Likely
    Size
    1–2
    Wind loading producing slabs on lee and cross loaded features predominately below alpine ridge lines.

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    1–2
    This weak layer exists below a strong mid-pack at treeline and sub-alpine elevations. Field teams are still experiencing the occasional whumph from these weak layers collapsing.

Weather Forecast

Heavy snowfall is forecast for the Columbia Icefields on Tuesday night accompanied by moderate to strong Westerly winds.

Snowpack Summary

Wind slab forming on lee alpine ridge lines. Large surface hoar crystals formed last week are being buried by new snow. This layer is more likely found on sheltered slopes at tree line reaching into the alpine. The interface between the strong mid-pack and weaker basal facets is most susceptible to human triggering from shallow rocky areas.

Avalanche Summary

No avalanches reported today.

Confidence

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

Regions covered