Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 24th, 2016 4:00PM

The alpine rating is below threshold, the treeline rating is below threshold, and the below treeline rating is below threshold. Known problems include Loose Wet, Cornices and Deep Persistent Slabs.

a.l. horton, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Spring Avalanche Conditions until further notice. Monitor weather for significant changes.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Spring weather conditions. Rain, snow, wind, scorching hot sun can all be expected over the course of the day, be prepared for all types of weather. Freezing levels to remain high.

Snowpack Summary

A weak snowpack with isothermal conditions Below Tree Line, Tree Line and reaching into the Alpine exists on all aspects due to prolonged high freezing levels. Some crust recovery overnight in the high Alpine. The persistent slab problem still exists on high north facing alpine slopes in specific locations.

Avalanche Summary

Loose wet and wet slab avalanches up to size 3 have been observed along the Parkway, many initiated by cornice failure due to daytime heating. This trend will continue with the forecasted weather ahead.

Confidence

Problems

Loose Wet

Wet avalanches are now more frequent on N to NE aspects as snowpack continues to deteriorate.

Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely - Very Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Cornices

Numerous cornice failures observed and have been triggering isothermal avalanches to size 3.

Even small cornice falls may trigger larger avalanches.Extra caution needed around cornices with current conditions.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Likely - Very Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Deep Persistent Slabs

This problem remains primarily on high northerly alpine slopes.

Travel early on frozen crusts before the heat of the day.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely - Very Likely

Expected Size

2 - 4

Valid until: Apr 25th, 2016 4:00PM