Avalanche forecast

Bridgeport Avalanche Center

Bridgeport Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired last year. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Warm and sunny weather will produce wet snow on sunny slopes today. Be aware of your timing during the day, as daytime heating will cause wet loose snow to form. Consider changing aspects before the snow gets too slushy, especially in and around steep terrain. 

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1–1.5

    Overnight temperatures hovered around freezing last night along with a clear nights sky would have allowed for a refreeze of the surface snow to occur. During the day today, this frozen snow will begin to thaw, creating wet loose snow conditions. Be on the lookout for rollerballs or pinwheels of snow. Areas around the rocks will heat up faster earlier in the day amplifying the problem. Wet loose snow usually releases from a single point or area moving down the mountain while entraining more snow along the descent. Even a small amount of snow can drag a person off their feet or through consequential terrain. Keep your eye on the time of day on solar aspects and plan to be off of avalanche terrain when the snow gets wet to avoid the problem. 

    (4/3/2024)

    Wet Loose snow in the BWRA below 'The Cantina' 

    Photo: Julian Hanna

Avalanche Discussion

Spring conditions the past few days have created a freeze-thaw 'corn cycle' cycle in some areas. Expect firm conditions in the morning hours and punchy wet snow in the afternoon. Planning your route and having your sharps kit (crampons, ice axe, etc) is something to consider when navigating steep or even moderate terrain. Plan your route to avoid a descent during the late afternoon when the snow is punchy and wet.  

Regions covered