Jasper

Incoming snow and strong winds are forming windslabs and adding load over a persistent weak layer.

The Icefields Parkway will be closed for avalanche control on February 26th until February 27th from Parker Ridge to Saskatchewan Crossing. Check for updates on https://511.alberta.ca/

Low

• We are uncertain due to the track and intensity of the incoming weather system.
• We are uncertain about how persistent slabs will react to the forecast weather.

The Icefields Parkway patrol was unable to see into alpine and treeline eleveations due to winds and blowing snow. Strong wind conditions noted with windslabs forming.

15-30cm of new and incoming snow will be redistributed by strong winds building windslab layers over various old hard surfaces, or a patchy surface hoar layer below treeline. This incoming snow will add load on top of a late January weak layer consisting of facets and spotty surface hoar 30-60cm below the surface, forming a persistent slab. The midpack is generally dense and well consolidated with basal facets in thin snowpack areas.

Friday

Cloudy with scattered flurries.

Accumulation: 5 cm.

Alpine temperature: High -11 °C.

Ridge wind west: 20 km/h gusting to 55 km/h.

Freezing level at valley bottom.

A mix of sun and cloud with isolated flurries.

Precipitation: Trace.

Alpine temperature: Low -16 °C, High -12 °C.

Ridge wind west: 15 km/h gusting to 45 km/h.

Freezing level at valley bottom.

A mix of sun and cloud.

Precipitation: Nil.

Alpine temperature: Low -15 °C, High -8 °C.

Ridge wind west: 15 km/h.

Freezing level at valley bottom.

• Fresh snow rests on a problematic persistent slab, don't let good riding lure you into complacency.
• Recent strong wind means wind slabs may be found farther downslope than expected.
• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind-affected terrain.