Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 1st, 2012 4:00PM

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

Garth Lemke, Parks Canada

Jasper.

Steady moderate gusting strong winds in Icefields zone over past 48 hrs continue. Scouring and depositing anywhere exposed above 2100m. Variable wind directions from North to South.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Problems

Wind Slabs

Variable windslabs continue to develop from moderate winds. These slabs remain surprisingly unreactive yet touchy pockets exist in specific locations. Choose conservative tracks.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Storm Slabs

60 cm of snow fell since Tuesday. It has settled down to 45. The snow is wind affected in exposed above treeline locations. Sheltered spots below treeline, snow remains available for transport. Watch for crossloaded gullies or slab formation.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Deep Persistent Slabs

A few cornice drops were able to trigger this layer proving the hidden danger of this weakness. Full path avalanches are possible.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Valid until: Jan 2nd, 2012 4:00PM