Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 20th, 2015 4:00PM

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

a.l. horton, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Continuing snow will improve ski conditions on treeline and alpine slopes. On solar aspects, a breakable suncrust reduces the fun factor.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Light precipitation to continue until Sunday morning with amounts of 10-15 cm expected at upper elevations. Rain likely below treeline. Light to moderate SW winds to continue. Clearing on Sunday with falling freezing levels.

Snowpack Summary

Crusts exist up to 2200m on all aspects and extend higher on solar aspects. Above treeline, wind slabs up to 65cm thick can be found in isolated locations. Bonding of these slabs is good however a graupel (Marmot Area) and facet (elsewhere) layer has moderate shear tests. Deeper weaknesses can be found near the base of the snowpack.

Avalanche Summary

No avalanche patrol on Friday. No avalanches reported.

Confidence

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

Problems

Wind Slabs

These soft slabs have bonded well in most locations. Slab depths range from 25 to 65cm. Slabs sit on a graupel layer around Marmot and a facet layer elsewhere. Moderate shear tests have been found on this interface.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

Large cornices or surface avalanches are the likely trigger.

Extra caution needed around cornices with current conditions.If triggered the storm slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Mar 21st, 2015 4:00PM