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Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Feb 9th, 2020–Feb 10th, 2020
Alpine
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: Jasper.

Moderate to strong SW winds are creating windslabs on NE to SE aspects. 

Watch for solar warming on steep Southerly aspects. Overhead pockets  can prove be a significant hazard for ice climbing teams.

Weather Forecast

Generally broken skies in the region this week. Some sporadic snow accumulating to no more than a trace. Freezing levels around 2000 metres. Alpine winds are expected increase in strength overnight Sunday, blowing from the northwest at 30-50 km/h.

See Weather synopsis here: Avalanche Canada Mountain Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

SW winds have created deep pockets of windslab and pronounced cornice development on North aspects. Mixed slab character, support and sensitivity in the mid-pack is bridging the deeper basal facets and depth hoar. Average HS at treeline: ~160cm.

Avalanche Summary

Previous large avalanches observed on Northly aspects and triggered by large loads (like cornices). These have been entraining mass and gaining momentum, often traveling into below treeline elevations and terminating at valley bottom. Do not loiter in run-outs.

Confidence

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

New and developing wind slabs are present in the forecast region. Their sensitivity will vary particularly with local loading and wind patterns.

  • If triggered the storm/wind slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.
  • Assess start zones carefully and use safe travel techniques.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3

Deep Persistent Slabs

Shallow snowpack zones and/or large triggers such as cornice failures could trigger this deep layer. The consequences would be severe!

  • Assess start zones carefully and use safe travel techniques.
  • If triggered the wind slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Treeline, Below Treeline.

Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size: 1.5 - 3