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RegisterOct 19th, 2021–Oct 20th, 2021
Jasper.
Avalanche season is upon us in the alpine. Due to a thin snowpack, glacier travel is also at its trickiest. Use Weather Stations, the ACMG Mountain Condition Reports, and the MIN for conditions; or ask for Visitor Safety at 780-852-6155.
Expect the current alternation of cold fronts and sunny spells to continue. Watch fluctuating freezing levels – warmer periods can rain leave crusts, which may act as future sliding layers. Avalanche Canada offers a regional forecast (https://avalanche.ca/weather/forecast). Detailed local forecasts are available on SpotWX (https://spotwx.com/)
Watch out for alpine areas as they gain enough snow for avalanches over the next couple of weeks. Alpine bowls, gullies, and around ridgelines are classic spots for early season avalanches. Many open crevasses are hidden by thin bridges of wind-blown snow. Roping up, diligent probing, and experience are critical for glacier travel. More info.
Danger is highest after new snowfall, rain, or wind transport - expect increased avalanche activity during, and for 24hrs after such events. Use extra caution where slabs lie over alpine ice. Do your own avalanche forecasting; carry a transceiver, shovel & probe and practice.