Wind Slabs
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–2
The storm will peak in the second half of the day and into the evening, along with the avalanche danger. Be wary of any steep, leeward terrain that has been subjected to the winds and new snow during these times. As always, recent avalanches, shooting cracks, and collapsing are bulls eye indicators telling you the snowpack is unsafe.
Over the past 72 hours, a predominantly northwest wind direction has been blowing at an average speed of 17 mi/hr. As time progresses, steady winds and new snow will provide ample ammunition for the continuation of this problem. Many ideal bed surfaces exist near and above treeline for new snow to slide on. As snow begins to accumulate below treeline, exposed areas will likely be influenced by the wind and form small drifts in isolated and steep locations. This problem can be identified in several ways. Surfaces will often display wavy or rippled textures on leeward aspects. Catchment zones may host pillow-like snow shapes and could range from thin to thick or hard to soft snow. Drifted snow will also display denser snow near the surface. By feeling the density of the surface snow and what's below it, you can gain an idea of wind loaded locations near and around you. An observation from above treeline on a southeast aspect highlighted multiple interfaces within the top 60 cm of snow. Hand pits and shovel shear tests discerned these interfaces to be reactive and the likely layers of instability riders may face. Other stability tests, like the CT and ECT, discerned weak snow beneath the December 30th crust. While that snow remains a layer of concern, we haven't experienced any avalanches on it yet and will continue to monitor it in the coming days.