Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 26th, 2012 4:00PM

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

max darrah, Parks Canada

Jasper.

There is still a lot of snow available for transport - be aware of newly formed slabs if the winds increase.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Tuesday will be sunny and on the cold side. Winds expected to remain light but locally they may gust stronger. The rest of week will remain unsettled, flurries, and seasonal temperatures.

Snowpack Summary

Minimal wind affect observed, 10cm of low density snow on surface in most areas. Windslabs can be found in the alpine buried under last week's snow. Several small whumphs observed in shallow and exposed areas. HST is bonding well.

Avalanche Summary

Several loose natural point releases observed on solar aspects in steep rocky terrain, did not trigger slopes below. No new slab avalanches observed. Good visibility.

Confidence

Wind effect is extremely variable

Problems

Wind Slabs

No new natural activity on this layer was noted today yet the potential still exists on steep unsupported wind affected slopes. This layer can be found under 10-20cm of recent storm snow and may be located where reverse loading occurred.

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: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Persistent Slabs

Persistent slabs are found in the mid-pack overlying Nov 6 crust or developing basal depth hoar. Snow load from wind deposition or significant snowfall may increase the likelihood of natural avalanches.

Avoid shallow snowpack areas where triggering is more likely.The recent snow may now be hiding windslabs that were easily visible before the snow fell.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Nov 27th, 2012 4:00PM