Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

Lawinenprobleme

• 

  Wind Slabs

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Hochgebirge
  • Waldgrenze
  • Unterhalb der Waldgrenze

  Wahrscheinlichkeit

  Possible

  Größe

  1–2

  Very strong wind out of the southwest through northwest has formed stiff, stubborn wind slabs around a foot deep. Heavily wind loaded terrain above the treeline could contain slabs 1-2 feet deep off steep, leeward terrain. The stubborn character of these wind slabs could provide a false sense of security without obvious shooting cracks. Look for drifts and stiffened or hollow-sounding snow as an indication of potentially wind-loaded terrain. These will be more likely in the upper elevations, but could exist in steep, isolated terrain below ~9,000’. Look for these slabs in unusual locations.

• 

  Persistent Slabs

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Hochgebirge
  • Waldgrenze
  • Unterhalb der Waldgrenze

  Wahrscheinlichkeit

  Possible

  Größe

  1.5–2.5

  Weak snow formed during the month-long drought in January is buried 2-3 feet below hard slabs. While the likelihood of triggering has decreased due to the strength of the overlying, isolated terrain still harbors buried surface hoar where the weight of a rider could trigger a large avalanche. These isolated areas are most likely on very steep terrain over 35° on northerly aspects between 8,500-9,500’. These weak layers are unlikely, or unreactive, across the majority of other terrain where plenty of safe riding can be found. The last human triggered avalanche was one week ago (Prater Canyon). Diligent snowpack assessment or steering clear of suspect slopes above consequential terrain is still advised. Buried surface hoar can be unpredictable and preserved for long periods of time. 

  Large triggers, such as cornice falls or multiple people on a slope, increases the chance of initiating a large avalanche on the January drought layer.