Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Jan 9th, 2014 4:34PM
The alpine rating is Deep Persistent Slabs and Wind Slabs.
, the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems includeSummary
Weather Forecast
A forecast of snow flurries and light winds should do little to change the avalanche hazard in the next 24 hours.
Snowpack Summary
Last weekend's storm snow overlies older wind slabs. In the alpine this newer snow has itself be blown into storm slabs which shear with easy to moderate force. The base of the snowpack is weak and unstable at all elevations. Near treeline the midpack is supportive and untracked powder can be found in wind sheltered locations.
Avalanche Summary
Increased loading with new snow and wind forecast for the weekend will renew avalanche activity at treeline and above. Field team noted the debris of 2 sz 2.5 slab avalanches which had released in the last 24 hours on the basal facets at alpine elevations. Control work with large explosives only produced small slides below treeline today.
Confidence
Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Saturday
Problems
Deep Persistent Slabs
Many avalanche paths have already slid in the 2,400 m - 2,800 m range. Slopes that have not failed are expected to fail with the increased snow loading and winds this weekend.
Be aware of thin areas that may propogate to deeper instabilites.Avoid steep, open slopes.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Wind Slabs
The upper snowpack is a stratified layer of multiple windslabs. Recent field tests have produced failures with moderate shear strength. Currently this condition is less prevalent at treeline. Forecasted snowfall and wind will increase this concern.
Avoid ice climbs that are in terrain traps below large start zones.Avoid freshly wind loaded features.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Jan 10th, 2014 4:00PM