Avalanche Forecast

Expect storm slabs to develop at all elevations as snow levels lower and precipitation continues throughout the day Wednesday. Strong winds associated with this storm will cause slabs to become thicker and more reactive in wind-loaded terrain. Use small test slopes to investigate the bond between new and old snow, and bonding within the new storm. Unsupported slopes, large terrain features steeper than 35 degrees, and any slopes with evidence of wind-drifted snow have a higher likelihood of avalanches and should be avoided. Shooting cracks, collapses, and recent avalanches are obvious signs of instability that should give you pause. At lower elevations, heavy snow may exist due to substantial rainfall Tuesday night, with slides possibly acting more like wet snow avalanches.

Release of a soft cohesive layer (a slab) of new snow that breaks within the storm snow or on the old snow surface. Storm-slab problems typically last between a few hours and few days. Storm-slabs that form over a persistent weak layer (surface hoar, depth hoar, or near-surface facets) may be termed Persistent Slabs or may develop into Persistent Slabs.

You can reduce your risk from Storm Slabs by waiting a day or two after a storm before venturing into steep terrain. Storm slabs are most dangerous on slopes with terrain traps, such as timber, gullies, over cliffs, or terrain features that make it difficult for a rider to escape off the side.

Storm slabs usually stabilize within a few days, and release at or below the trigger point. They exist throughout the terrain, and can be avoided by waiting for the storm snow to stabilize.