Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 6th, 2012 4:00PM

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

Garth Lemke, Parks Canada

Jasper.

The air remained cool today yet the sun initiated some natural activity. Expect the danger rating and naturals to increase when sun feels intense. Overnight freezing level will be valley bottom rebounding to 1500m+ during the day.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain

Problems

Loose Wet

Up to size 2 loose avalanches were noted at all elevations and aspects with the sun out; however, they were limited to steep gullies and rocks. Expect activity of this nature which could initiate deeper instabilities. Sunday will be clear skies.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Wind Slabs

Winds continue to buff exposed slopes and steep gully sidewalls into a slab at treeline and alpine locations. A few natural slab avalanches were noted today one being fairly large off Mt Kitcheners ridge facing the Icefields center.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Deep Persistent Slabs

This layer can wake up unexpectedly. There have been reports of large avalanches South of us and skiers triggered a size 3 last Sunday at the Icefields from a shallow spot on Feb 14 surface hoar. Investigate for this weakness before committing.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Valid until: Apr 7th, 2012 4:00PM