Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Apr 6th, 2023 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Deep Persistent Slabs, Loose Wet and Wind Slabs.
CB,
Avalanche Canada
Warmer weather than we've had for a while, and weak overnight freezes are forecasted for the next couple days. Signs of instability like pinwheeling or small loose wet avalanches are a good indicator that the avalanche hazard is increasing.
Summary
Confidence
Avalanche Summary
Only isolated small loose dry avalanches in steep alpine terrain have been observed in the region in the last few days.
Don't forget to post avalanche observations to the MIN.
Snowpack Summary
Moderate to strong winds have redistributed the dusting of new snow from last week. Under this there is a sun crust at all elevations on solar aspects, with mixed facets on polar aspects. The mid-pack consists of multiple layers of dense wind effected snow, sun crusts, and facets. Depth hoar and basal facets make up the base of the snowpack. Snow depth varies ranges from 60-170cm.
Weather Summary
An upper-level southwesterly flow will bring flurries into Jasper by Friday afternoon, with minimal accumulations. Southwesterly ridgetop winds 30 to 50km/h with freezing levels rising to between 2000 and 2300m. Alpine highs range from -2°C to 2°C.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- If triggered loose wet avalanches may step down to deeper layers resulting in larger avalanches.
- Use caution on large alpine slopes, especially around thin areas that may propagate to deeper instabilities.
Problems
Deep Persistent Slabs
The bottom of the snowpack is inherently weak with well-developed Facets and Depth Hoar. Large triggers like cornices can still initiate this deep persistent slab so be mindful of your overhead hazard and keep in mind that human triggering remains possible in thick to thin snowpack areas.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Loose Wet
With a forecasted weak freeze on Thursday night, and temperatures rising further on Friday, expect this problem to develop over the day.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Below Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Wind Slabs
South west winds have redistributed last weeks snow into thin wind slabs on lee and cross-loaded features. Use caution as you transition into wind effected terrain
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, North West.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Apr 7th, 2023 4:00PM
