Avalanche forecast

Bridgeport Avalanche Center

Bridgeport Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
3 · Considerable
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Highlights

The arrival of new snow and strong winds have created dangerous avalanche conditions.  Large natural avalanches are possible today.  Avoid areas where wind-drifted snow has collected and watch for any cracking or collapsing in the snowpack. Increase your safety margins by taking the time to pause and evaluate your travel routes and acknowledging that conservative decision-making is essential.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2

    The arrival of another atmospheric river brings the onset of more snow and wind. Exposed terrain above and near the treeline will allow blowing snow to move uninterrupted through the landscape forming consolidated wind slabs. Fresh snow will be transported throughout the terrain by strong SW winds, depositing wind slabs on leeward slopes and cross-loading gullies. With nearly a foot of new snow in the forecast and the fact that wind can transport snow 3-5x faster than snowfall rates, expect to find  3-5ft thick wind slabs in some locations. Watch for any new avalanches,  especially near ridgetops or on convex slopes to help clue you in on the wind slab problem today.  Take note of locations where wind-textured snow exists and use your sled or skis today to feel how surface conditions change throughout the terrain depending on aspect and wind exposure. 

    8000', NW

  • Storm Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    With 12 inches of new snow arriving today, sheltered terrain will shield fresh snow from the blustery winds.  New snow will have the chance to settle below the treeline and create a cohesive slab. Firm and refrozen surface conditions will hamper the ability of new snow to bond with the existing snowpack. In addition,  this storm is forecasted to come in "upside down"  meaning cold snow will arrive this morning followed by warmer and more dense snow in the afternoon, creating undesirable and unstable dense snow over the unconsolidated cold snow. A few clues to watch for while in the field include settlement cones, cracks, or collapses within the snowpack. Doing a quick mitt pit can be a simple way to check and see if there is cohesion and slab formation within the new snow. 

Avalanche Discussion

  • Recent observations in the Twin lakes area show wet surface snow below the tree line in all aspects, even in shaded north trees. Multiple crust layers were evident on  NW aspects near 8k ft.
  •  Although the March sun is beginning to influence the snowpack remember that during this transitional time of year ride/ski what is under you not what's on the date on the calendar.
  • Send us your observations and let us know what you see!

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