Wind Slabs
- Alta montaña
- Límite del bosque
- Bajo el límite del bosque
- Probabilidad
- Possible
- Tamaño
- 1–2
Last Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (Northern Wallowas), winds out of the south, southwest, and west have been blowing strong enough to create windslab formation on north, northeast, east, and even west facing terrain in some locations. When traveling on terrain steeper than 35 degrees today (all elevations), suspect the possibility that the snow you are recreating upon is a windslab that could be triggered by the weight of a recreationalist. The observance of "shooting cracks" projecting out from skis or snow shoes is a screaming red flag that the snow you are playing on is unstable and could avalanche. Other red flags to watch out for include the observance of large pillow or domelike parcels of snow and hollow sounding snow. The most obvious red flag or warning sign that avalanches are possible is the observance of avalanches like the one that occurred yesterday near Fish Lake (see the photo and caption). When red flags are observed while out in the mountains, it is time to consider taking your recreational activities to terrain lower in angle than 35 degrees. Leeward facing terrain steeper than 35 degrees are the areas most likely to produce human triggered avalanches today. Evaluate the snow, weather , and terrain carefully before venturing out onto these steep, leeward facing slopes. If you're unsure about snow stability, you can always choose lower angle terrain where you will find plenty of great riding options. Worth mentioning, think about traveling one at a time when crossing or recreating on a slope steep enough to avalanche. Be safe out there and happy new year !
(12/31/2022)
Photo taken in the Southern Wallowas on Saturday above Fish Lake on a northeast facing slope at about 7100' . Avalanche was triggered by the weight of two snowmobile riders and their sleds. The riders were able to self extricate and exit the area on their own. You can read more about this "close call" in the OBSERVATIONS area of our website. Thanks to the observer who posted the valuable photos and information !
Photo: Linda Batterton