Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 11th, 2015 4:04PM

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

a.l. horton, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Warm temperatures below treeline will create isothermal conditions resulting in increasing possibility of loose snow avalanches. These temperatures will also increase the hazard at treeline and above.

Summary

Weather Forecast

The freezing level will rise to 2000 m Thursday.Â Light precipitation will continue with sunny breaks through to Saturday.Â Forecast models are uncertain for the weekend but another large pulse ofÂ precipitation is possible on Saturday.

Snowpack Summary

There is a wide variation in the snowpack across the forecast region.Â In the Icefields Area, there is significant snow available for transport.Â SW winds will be forming wind slabs below ridge lines and along gulley features. Up to 1 meter of storm slab is sitting over the Jan 29 rain crust on all aspects at treeline and above.

Avalanche Summary

Minor sluffing continues out of steep terrain.

Confidence

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

Problems

Persistent Slabs

The 1 meter of storm snow has transitioned into a persistent slab. This slab is sitting on a raincrust/surface hoar weakness.

Use caution in lee areas in the alpine and treeline. Recent storm snow has formed touchy slabs.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Deep Persistent Slabs

This layer remains a concern in isolated areas above treeline and may be triggered by large loads.

Avoid steep slopes below cornices.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Feb 12th, 2015 4:00PM