Loose Wet
- Alta montaña
- Límite del bosque
- Bajo el límite del bosque
- Probabilidad
- Unlikely
- Tamaño
- 1–2
Temperatures finally dropped below freezing after three consecutive nights above freezing. A firm crust has likely formed as a result making wet avalanche activity less of a concern as previous days. Light wind, increasing temperatures, and solar input from the sun could break down these crusts quicker than anticipated by the afternoon. If you experience the snow destabilizing, it will be important to acknowledge that wet loose avalanches could be triggered by skiers and riders.
Wet loose avalanches are relatively easy to predict and occur as snow surfaces soften and become slushy/unsupportable. These can start small and entrain large amounts of snow on sustained, steep terrain. They are more likely around rock features that heat surrounding snow surfaces.
Cornice falls are possible as these will take a longer time to fully freeze. Cornices are notorious for breaking further back than expected, so give them a wide margin. Limit exposure beneath large cornices as these can also trigger large slab avalanches.
Fresh rollerballs and pinwheels are a sign of the snow destabilizing.
Photo: Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center