Jasper

Winter has returned with a week of colder temperatures.

Winds from all directions have built fresh wind slabs in unexpected areas. Stay alert to newly formed slabs and choose sheltered terrain for better riding conditions.

Moderate

• We are uncertain due to the variability of wind effect on the snowpack.

Reports of natural size 1 wind slabs in the last 24-48 hours.

Up to 30cm of soft snow in sheltered locations overlie various melt freeze crusts and older wind affected snow, or a patchy surface hoar layer below treeline. The midpack is generally dense and well consolidated with basal facets in many areas.

Colder air remains in place with alpine temperatures generally around -15 to -20°C, and valley temperatures staying well below freezing. Northerly winds will remain throughout Wednesday then turn to a more westerly flow later in the week. Precipitation looks light and intermittent, with only small amounts expected.

• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind-affected terrain.
• Recent wind has varied in direction, so watch for wind slabs on all aspects.