Avalanche forecast

Jasper

Jan 2 – 3, 2016Parks Canada
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Archived · expired 11 years ago

Avalanche danger

Sat
Sun
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Although the Avalanche Hazard is Low, Ice Climbers should be cautious on steep solar exposed gulleys and the potential of overhead hazard. A temperature inversion and solar input is triggering loose snow avalanches in this terrain.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    1–2
    Wind slabs can be expected to be most developed in the alpine and open tree-line ridge tops.

  • Loose Dry

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2
    Solar triggered sluffs entraining loose snow in steep solar facing gulleys.

Weather Forecast

Blocking high pressure and connected ridge is deflecting all weather systems. A strong temp inversion will peak on Saturday with alpine temps well above freezing expected. Valley bottom temps will remain cold. All temps begin to slide as the new week begins and no precipitation in the near future.

Snowpack Summary

Variable wind slab in open or exposed terrain. Sun crust forming on steep solar aspects due to warm alpine temperatures. In most areas the snowpack = Surface facets on a supportive mid-pack that is bridging basal facets.

Avalanche Summary

Numerous loose snow avalanches to size 1 observed along the Icefields Parkway Thursday afternoon on steep solar exposed gulleys (ice climbs).

Confidence

Freezing levels are uncertain

Regions covered