Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Jasper.
Road closures are planned for avalanche control on March 3, 2022 on Highway 93N between Saskatchewan Crossing and Parkers Ridge. Road will be closed for 1.5 hour durations between 10am and 3pm.
Weather Forecast
Thursday
Cloudy with sunny periods and isolated flurries.
Precipitation: Trace.
Alpine temperature: High -3 °C.
Ridge wind light to 25 km/h.
Freezing level: 1800 metres.
Friday
A mix of sun and cloud.
Precipitation: Nil.
Alpine temperature: Low -13 °C, High -8 °C.
Ridge wind north: 10-25 km/h.
Freezing level at valley bottom.
Snowpack Summary
20cm of new snow around the Parker Ridge area brings the Storm total to 35 cm since Feb 28. The new snow is low density. Freezing levels are around 2100m. A crust below the top 25-40cm of snow is decomposing and can be found below 2500m. There is a weak facet snow layer at the bottom of the snowpack, this is widespread throughout the park.
Avalanche Summary
Several loose dry avalanches were observed off steep rocky features on Wednesday up to Sz 1. One small natural wind slab observed on a steep rocky open tree line slope on Monday.
Confidence
Avalanche Problems
Wind Slabs
Previous SW winds and snow available to transport has resulted in wind slab formation. In sheltered location there could be isolated storm slabs.
- Minimize exposure during periods of heavy loading from new snow and wind.
- Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.
Aspects: North, North East, East, West, North West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible - Likely
Expected Size: 1 - 2.5
Loose Dry
If it is raining at lower elevations watch out for wet loose avalanches below tree line. Avoid ice climbs that are exposed to steep rocky terrain.
- Avoid terrain traps, such as gullies, where the consequences of a small avalanche could be serious.
- Use caution above cliffs where small avalanches may have severe consequences.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 2