Avalanche forecast

Selkirk Mountains

Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Moderate winds continue to transport snow across the Selkirk and Cabinets. Look for loading in unusual places due to wind from multiple directions. You could trigger Wind Slab avalanches in wind drifted areas or in starting zones near ridges. Look for areas of stiff, wind textured slopes and try to avoid them. Dry Loose  slides may also be a factor to consider, as well and could be triggered on steep slopes. With these overlapping hazards, choose simple, well supported terrain. 

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Dry

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

    With the low density new snow, sluffs could be triggered by a person on a steep slope. These avalanches shouldn't pack too much punch, but the larger the terrain feature the bigger they could become. Avoid traveling beneath rock outcroppings or on steep convex slopes.  

  • Wind Slabs

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

    A shift in weather fronts has brought about unusual North winds, particularly strong and gusty on mountain tops. As a consequence, southerly slopes in steep areas now bear wind-deposited spots, an occurrence uncommon in these regions. Notably, our snowpack tests revealed easily propagating results, specifically ECTP, on a wind-pillowed southern ridgetop. Although forecasted wind intensities and snow transport are expected to decrease, lingering slabs remain reactive to triggers. It's reccomended to avoid wind slabs in higher elevation open steep ridgetop areas, allowing time for them to strengthen with underlying layers. For optimal snow riding quality, consider exploring middle elevation sheltered trees as a safer travel alternative.

    Photo: Brian Hilland

Avalanche Discussion

The Selkirk Mountains have encountered moderate to strong winds from the north to northwest over the past three days, marking the first significant windstorm of the winter season. This event has facilitated the transportation of a substantial amount of snow, particularly as there was an abundance of soft, transport-ready snow on the surface. Consequently, areas of deposition have accumulated significant wind slabs and cornices in both the Selkirk and Cabinet mountains.

During our trip into the Cabinet Mountains yesterday, IPAC Forecasters encountered winds from various directions. Despite indications of strong north winds, a prevailing strong southwest wind dominated most of the day, loading north faces. This resulted in the triggering of a small Dry Loose avalanche on a steep north face. Beneath the wind slabs and light-density snow, a supportable crust, positioned 1 to 3 feet below the surface, acts as a bridging layer isolating the bottom of the snowpack. Currently, due to the cold air temperatures and the robust isolating crust, instabilities in the lower part of the snowpack are not an immediate concern.

Travel advisory: Given the erratic nature of wind loading, it is crucial to be vigilant for signs of wind loading and to avoid wind-loaded slopes. Indications that you may be on wind-affected snow include a styrofoam-like texture, firm or compact snow, pillowed snow or wind etching, cornice formation, and cracking in the snow. Exercise caution and prioritize safety while navigating these conditions. For the best skiing or snowmobiling, seek out sheltered slopes near and around treeline. Mid-slope areas yesterday provided good quality snow! Have fun and stay safe!

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