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Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 20th, 2012–Dec 21st, 2012
Alpine
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
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
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
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.

Best ski conditions will be found at and below tree line on sheltered slopes.

Weather Forecast

An arctic cold front will move into the forecast area.  Light to moderate Southerly winds are forecast with the possibility of light flurries overnight, clearing by Friday.  Temperatures will be about 10 degrees colder than average for this time of year.

Snowpack Summary

Windslabs in the alpine are the primary avalanche concern. These are more likely to be encountered in the Columbia Icefields area where the strongest winds have been observed. In the Marmot Pass area on December 18th, surface slabs  failed with a moderate shear near treeline elevations. The mid snowpack remains supportive for the time being.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches have been observed.

Confidence

The weather pattern is stable

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Previous moderate to strong SW winds in the Icefields area at upper elevations have added to this condition.
Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.Sheltered slopes at lower elevations will offer the best skiing today.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3

Deep Persistent Slabs

A supportive mid-pack is adding strength to the snowpack above this weakness. Shallow areas should be considered suspect.
Avoid shallow snowpack areas where triggering is more likely.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Unlikely

Expected Size: 2 - 3