Lawinenlagebericht

East Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Lawinengefahr

Thu
Hochgebirge
2 · Mässig
Waldgrenze
2 · Mässig
Unterhalb
1 · Gering
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Veraltet — dieser Lagebericht ist 6 years ago abgelaufen. Du siehst vergangene Verhältnisse, nicht den aktuellen Bericht.

Kernpunkte

You can trigger a large slab avalanche on steep slopes at upper elevations where thick, cohesive slabs may have formed. Look for signs of instability. Identify and avoid slopes and features of concern as you travel.

Lawinenprobleme

  • Wind Slabs

    • Hochgebirge
    • Waldgrenze
    • Unterhalb der Waldgrenze
    Wahrscheinlichkeit
    Possible
    Größe
    1–2

    It will be possible to trigger slab avalanches on Wednesday due to new snow and wind. Keep an eye out for signs of instability such as shooting cracks or collapsing of large sections of snow with a person's weight. Look for dense, cohesive slab buildup as you gain elevation.  Wind slabs may feel punchy as you travel over them. Other clues that indicate wind has drifted the snow are the presence of drifts and cornices. Even if there isn't much new snow, the winds at upper elevations may have created cohesive slabs with existing snow. These could be hard to discern and hidden under a few inches of fresh snow. You are most likely to trigger an avalanche on northwest through southeast aspects in the alpine, and on slopes 35 degrees and steeper. 

    Remember, it is still early season and the snowpack is shallow. Consider the consequences of even a small slide, which could result in a rough ride. Obstacles like hidden stumps, rocks, and open water still abound. 

    Blowing snow, firm and textured snow, and cornice formation are all evidence that wind slabs are forming on lee slopes.

Avalanche Discussion

We have minimal direct observations from the zone, so the forecast comes with a high amount of uncertainty about previous snow structure. What we do know is that the snowpack in the East Central is shallow. In some areas, folks have found enough coverage to safely ride, and in others not enough. Higher elevation, shaded slopes are generally holding the deepest snowpack, which may be 3ft+ deep. On Sunday, an observer found a thick sun crust on all but sheltered, shaded slopes in Bean Creek of the Teanaway. No instabilities were noted. That same day, another observer found less than 2ft of snow on the ground near Mission Peak. 

Check out our new observations platform, and consider submitting an ob if you get out. Now is a great time to run through your safety equipment, and check to make sure everything is in good working order. Check my recent blog post on it here!

During the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, continue to follow the latest guidance from local, state and federal health officials. Avoid unnecessary risks that could impact first responders and stress medical resources.  Wear a mask when appropriate, practice social distancing, and consider recreating closer to home.

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