West Slopes Central

Lawinenprobleme

• 

  Wind Slabs

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Hochgebirge
  • Waldgrenze
  • Unterhalb der Waldgrenze

  Wahrscheinlichkeit

  Likely

  Größe

  1–2

  A lot of uncertainty exists in the snowpack at this time, as little information is available in the West Central zone. However, several avalanches occurred in nearby zones since the new snow fell starting on Saturday. Some of these wind slab avalanches occurred within new snow layers at density changes. A few larger avalanches occurred at the bottom of the new snow layer, and possibly involved persistent weak layers which formed during the long dry spell. 

  A lull in precipitation will help to stabilize wind slabs that failed within the new snow layer, but it will not do much to stabilize persistent weak layers beneath the new snow. So far, the most notable avalanches remain limited to pockets of this potential weak layer. It may not exist as large swaths, but we aren’t sure how widespread the layer is. Take this into account if you’re keen to jump out onto large, steep and exposed northerly slopes. In all areas you travel, continue to feel for changes in snow hardness. Plunge your poles into the snow to check snow depths regularly if you use them. Search for drifting on convex rolls, near rocky outcroppings, and in gullies. Pay attention to cracking and whumphs, clear signs that a steep slope could avalanche. If you find any of these characteristics, stick to lower angle terrain and avoid nearby steep slopes.