AUGUST 1, 2005

AVALANCHE ADVISORY UPDATE FOR HIGH ALPINE ROUTES

Parks Canada is still advising hikers and climbers to take extra caution when climbing on, or when exposed to steep, snow covered slopes in the alpine; the avalanche back-country advisory is currently listed as SERIOUS / CONSIDERABLE.

The previous advisory that was sent on July 11, 2005, was a result of a cold, winter-like snow pack at higher elevations; conditions have now changed to more of a springtime wet avalanche cycle.

Information:

Given the current conditions, avalanche training, experience and rescue equipment are essential for safe climbing on alpine routes. Conditions are UNUSUAL for this time of year and will not improve until we have an extended period of melting and/or overnight freezing. Many of the popular climbing and scrambling routes have more snow than normal.

A brief period of cold overnight temperatures the week of July 20 has given way to a prolonged period of warm temperatures, with little overnight freezing. This combination of snow and warm temperatures is resulting in wet snow avalanches, collapsing cornices and weakened snow bridges over crevasses. Natural and climber triggered avalanches and cornice releases are being reported, and are occurring in both the day and night.

While climbing, remember avalanche hazards can change quickly throughout the day as the temperature warms; be cognizant of changing conditions in your surroundings. An additional hazard to watch for are thinly bridged crevasses which may be difficult to observe.

Background:

On Friday, July 29 two climbers were killed on the North Face route on Mt. Robson, British Columbia. Park Wardens from Jasper were dispatched to the scene and were able to recover one of the bodies. The other body has not been recovered due to subsequent large avalanches (size 3 on a scale of 5) sweeping the accident site. This is one more example of climbers being involved in an avalanche on alpine routes in the Rockies throughout June and July.

Further information on climbing routes and conditions can be obtained by calling the Park Wardens in Jasper at (780) 852-6155 or in Banff at (403) 762-1470.

TIPS to avoid an AVALANCHE please visit our web site at:

http://www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/ab/jasper/visit/visit7a1_E.asp

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CALL:

AVALANCHE ADVISORY IS SERIOUS ON HIGH ALPINE ROUTES

July 11, 2005

Parks Canada has asked everyone to assist in communicating this important message to residents and visitors.

AVALANCHE ADVISORY IS SERIOUS ON HIGH ALPINE ROUTES

Parks Canada is advising hikers to take extra caution when climbing in the steep, snow covered slopes in the alpine; the avalanche backcountry advisory is currently listed as SERIOUS.

Information:

Conditions are UNUSUAL for this time of year and will not improve until we have an extended period of strong melting and overnight freezing. Given the current conditions, avalanche training, experience and rescue equipment are essential for safe climbing on the alpine climbing routes. While climbing remember, avalanche hazards can change quickly throughout the day as the temperature warms; be cognisant of changing conditions in your surroundings. An additional hazard to watch for are thinly bridged crevasses which may be difficult to observe due to recent snowfall and wind drifting.

Background:

On Saturday July, 9 two climbers from Calgary triggered a large slide on Mount Athabasca, in Jasper National Park. Both climbers survived the avalanche, but one suffered serious back and ankle injuries. Wardens from both Banff and Jasper National Parks arrived on scene quickly to help the climbers and ensure the safety of other hikers in the area. The is one more example of several climber triggered avalanches that have occurred on alpine routes in the Rockies throughout June and July. At higher elevations the snow pack is covered by a thin crust, and recent snowfall and strong wind loading has formed a winter type slab on top of the crust; slabs up to 80cm in depth have been observed.

Photo of July 9, 2005 Avalanche on Mt. Athabasca. Photo taken on July 10, 2005 by Cyril Shokoples from shoulder 0f Boundary Peak.

Further information on climbing routes and conditions can be obtained by calling the Park Wardens in Jasper at (780) 852-6155 or in Banff at (403) 762-1470.

TIPS to avoid an AVALANCHE please visit our web site at:
http://www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/ab/jasper/visit/visit7a1_E.asp

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CALL:
Amber Pastoor
Media Relations and Executive Services
Jasper National Park
ph 780-852-6109
www.pc.gc.ca/jasper