Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 20th, 2012 4:00PM

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

A.L. Horton, Parks Canada

Jasper.

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

Summary

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

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

Valid until: Dec 21st, 2012 4:00PM