Avalanche forecast

Jasper

Apr 25 – 26, 2017Parks Canada
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Fri
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Skiing is good as new snow remains loose and unaffected by wind. Temperatures expected to stay cool next couple days so good time to get out there.

Avalanche problems

  • Cornices

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    2–3
    Cornice failures are still being noted periodically on West aspects 2500-2800m. Give them a wide berth as their failure is hard to predict but increases with sun, warmth, wind-loading, or new snow.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    1–2
    Warm temperatures and direct solar radiation influence  its distribution and magnitude. Freezing overnight temperatures decrease the danger in the morning until it warms up increasing the hazard. Most widespread on solar facing slopes.

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    2–4
    The deep instability could be triggered by a cornice failure. It is well bridged by a solid mid-pack; however, consider this problem becoming more active particularly on South aspects as the day warms up or the sun comes out.

Weather Forecast

Tuesday night will be clear and -8 to -12 degrees. Wednesday will start clear but increasing cloud into the afternoon. Wednesday will be relatively cool at -2 to -4 and 1800m freezing level. This freezing level will maintain into Thursday with increasing cloud and potential for some more precipitation Thursday to Friday.

Snowpack Summary

20cm loose new snow sits overtop a melt freeze crust in many locations above tree line. Mid pack is consolidated and bridges the weak base. The bottom snowpack is mixed facets and depth hoar.

Avalanche Summary

Tuesday's Icefields patrol noted one size 3 slab 72 hours old on West aspect at 2500m. Some small solar point releases noted out of rocky areas. 

Confidence

Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain on Wednesday

Regions covered