Lawinenlagebericht

East Slopes South

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Lawinengefahr

Sun
Hochgebirge
2 · Mässig
Waldgrenze
2 · Mässig
Unterhalb
1 · Gering
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Veraltet — dieser Lagebericht ist 5 years ago abgelaufen. Du siehst vergangene Verhältnisse, nicht den aktuellen Bericht.

Kernpunkte

Significant snowfall and strong winds will make avalanches possible in high elevation locations with an existing snowpack, especially in areas closer to the Cascade Crest. While the new snow will help build our winter snowpack, early-season travel hazards remain the top concern.

Lawinenprobleme

  • Wind Slabs

    • Hochgebirge
    • Waldgrenze
    • Unterhalb der Waldgrenze
    Wahrscheinlichkeit
    Possible
    Größe
    1–1.5

    Significant winds will transport snow to the lee sides of ridges and rollovers. These strong winds sometimes build slabs lower down on slopes than you may expect. Wind slabs are likely located in isolated areas at high elevations with an existing snowpack.  There is uncertainty with snow depths at upper elevations across the zone, so it will be important to make observations as you travel.  Watch for blowing snow, shooting cracks, and rounded pillow-like snow that sounds hollow. If you see any of these signs, steer around slopes greater than 35 degrees.

Avalanche Discussion

The storm we have all been waiting for has finally arrived, and up to 2ft of new snow could fall Friday night accompanied by strong winds. Above 6000ft, this snow will fall on 4-8inches of soft snow overlaying a rain crust. There are limited observations at these elevations and significant uncertainty about how well this new snow will stick to the existing surface.  At elevations near and below treeline, much of this snow will fall on bare ground, limiting the potential for avalanches. 

It is important to keep in mind that closer to the Crest, there may be a more significant existing snowpack and slightly higher avalanche danger.  Conditions may change rapidly throughout the day.  Make observations as you travel and watch for signs of instability such as recent avalanches, shooting cracks, and collapsing. 

All this new snow is exciting for us winter enthusiasts, but keep in mind that early season hazards such as rocks, trees, and creeks may now hide just below the surface of the new snow.  Travel conditions will be challenging, and the consequences of being caught in even a small avalanche will increase. You can easily be injured by being carried into obstacles. 

While we're excited about issuing daily forecasts for the East South zone this season, we need your help in making this successful. However and whenever you recreate in the mountains this winter, send us your observations.  Our observation platform is easy to use from your phone, and it's easy to upload photos. Observations shouldn't be technical. We want to know what you saw regarding avalanches, weather, and snowpack and where and how you traveled through the terrain. All of our zones are very large in area. While one local forecaster can make a huge positive difference, it takes engagement from the greater community to build a robust and reliable picture of what's happening in the places you recreate. Hope to see and hear from you this season. - The team at NWAC    

"Uphill travel reminder: Check in with your local ski area this weekend regarding terrain access and parking updates. Closed ski areas often share a similar snowpack and avalanche hazard as the surrounding backcountry. You may also encounter other hazards like active avalanche mitigation, unmarked obstacles, snowmobiles, groomers, and other heavy equipment as ski areas prepare to open. Be prepared to make your own assessments and handle emergencies."

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