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Avalanche Forecast

Mar 20th, 2015–Mar 21st, 2015
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: Jasper.

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

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

Avalanche 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