Boletín de aludes

Galena Summit & Eastern Mtns

Sawtooth Avalanche Center
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Peligro de aludes

Fri
Alta montaña
2 · Moderado
Límite del bosque
2 · Moderado
Bajo el límite
1 · Débil
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Desactualizado: este boletín caducó 5 years ago. Estás viendo condiciones pasadas, no el boletín vigente.

Lo esencial

Triggering a large avalanche remains a possibility. You can greatly reduce your risk by steering clear of very steep, rocky, wind-affected slopes.

Problemas de aludes

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alta montaña
    • Límite del bosque
    • Bajo el límite del bosque
    Probabilidad
    Possible
    Tamaño
    2–3

    It's been over a week without an avalanche, substantial loading, or snowfall. So why are folks just now cautiously "stepping out" into shady, consequential avalanche terrain?

    • The Weak Layer: Weak, sugary faceted snow exists near the ground on many upper elevation slopes as well as shady NW-N-NE-E facing slopes at middle elevation. This layer is widely distributed and is not strengthening quickly in this zone.
    • The Slab: The 2.5-4 foot thick slab above the weak snow is thick enough to produce large avalanches that could bury people but thin enough that skiers and riders can impact the weak layer and possibly trigger slides. 

    The nature of a persistent slab problem is in the name. This problem will take time to heal and will require patience to manage. Triggering a large, persistent slab avalanche is still on the table. To reduce the chances of finding trouble, avoid  "prime time" slope angles (35-45*) in rocky, wind-affected terrain (see photo). 

Avalanche Discussion

Today's small amount of snow and moderate wind will do little to change the big picture. In addition to the persistent slab problem described above, here are a few things to consider, especially if you're planning a day in the bigger peaks:

  • Slope Angle: Avalanches are most likely on "prime time" slopes, those around 35-45* in steepness. 
  • Wind Slabs: Snowfall and wind this afternoon may build a fresh set of thin, isolated wind slabs. These slabs are likely to be very small but have the potential to knock you off your feet. These as well as older weathered slabs will be most sensitive where they rest above polished icy surfaces or pockets of weak, faceted snow. 
  • Cornices: Cornices are abnormally large for January. Look out for yawning cracks that form when these blocks of snow peel away from steep ridges. Continue to give these unpredictable features the respect they deserve.

Considering the consequences of an avalanche before riding a slope is a good way to keep your ambitions in check. Even small avalanches can have big consequences in larger, more complex terrain.

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