Lawinenlagebericht

Presidential Range

Mount Washington Avalanche Center
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Lawinengefahr

Fri
Hochgebirge
3 · Erheblich
Waldgrenze
3 · Erheblich
Unterhalb
1 · Gering
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Veraltet — dieser Lagebericht ist 8 months ago abgelaufen. Du siehst vergangene Verhältnisse, nicht den aktuellen Bericht.

Kernpunkte

Triggering a large avalanche is possible today in wind-drifted snow and may occur naturally on southeast and east aspects. Avoid obvious drifts and any slopes where the wind has stiffened the snow surface.

Lawinenprobleme

  • Wind Slabs

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

    What and where is it:  Northwest winds ramped up last night and today, drifting the recent 3 - 4 inches of snow into wind slabs. The largest slabs will be on east and southeast aspects in Tuckerman Ravine and the Gulf of Slides, and they could release naturally if wind loading continues. Even a small wind-slab avalanche has the potential to step down into deeper weak layers and produce a much larger, more dangerous slide. 

    How can you recognize it:  Blowing snow at the ridgelines tells you that wind slabs are forming. Look for fresh, smooth “pillowy” drifts on the lee side of ridges, gullies, and rollovers. These slabs will be relatively soft due to moderate wind speeds. Obvious red flags are cracks shooting out from your feet, along with a stiffer slab over softer snow, a hollow/drum-like feel underfoot.How can you manage it: Manage your exposure by identifying and avoiding wind-loaded slopes, including the gentler terrain below large start zones. Manage risk by traveling one at a time through exposed areas. When transitioning from an area heavily wind-affected snow surface onto a softer drifted wind slab, dig into the snow and investigate carefully before committing.

Avalanche Discussion

Yesterday, winds shifted to the northwest but were slow to strengthen. Meaningful snow transport likely didn’t start until after dark, with drifting increasing late in the evening and overnight. Forecasters observed an even distribution of 3 - 4 inches of new snow, and avalanche hazard did not significantly increase before sunset. Forecasters also noted warmer temperatures helping the snowpack settle. This settlement may indicate that some of the deeper weak layers have gained strength and begun to heal, reducing the likelihood that a wind-slab avalanche steps down into the older snowpack.

Today, watch for new wind slabs forming as winds continue to move snow. Evaluate new slabs carefully before committing to steep, wind loaded terrain.

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