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Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Feb 3rd, 2013–Feb 4th, 2013
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: South Rockies.

Confidence

Fair - Due to variable snowpack conditions

Weather Forecast

Monday: Variable cloud / Strong west winds with extreme gusts / Alpine temperature of -8.0Tuesday: Light snowfall / Moderate west winds / Alpine temperature of -8.0 / Wednesday: Light snowfall / Moderate southwest winds /  Alpine temperature of -9.0

Avalanche Summary

Snowballing was observed on steep, sun-exposed terrain. A size 1 loose snow avalanche was also observed in steep unskiable east facing terrain.Observations were limited in the region. I would suspect more solar-induced recent avalanche activity with the warming on Saturday.

Snowpack Summary

The snow surface is a combination of wind slab at higher elevations, settled storm snow in more sheltered terrain, and a crust or moist snow on solar aspects.  A variable interface buried on Jan 23 is down about 15-35cm. In most locations it appears to be well bonded; however, buried surface hoar (up to 20mm) has been found in some locations. This will be something to watch as the overlying slab develops. The lower snowpack is generally well-settled.

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Ongoing strong winds may contribute to wind slab development. Watch for triggering below ridgecrests and in gullies.                                                                  .                                                                                                                                                                                                               
Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3

Persistent Slabs

A mixed bag of weak interfaces is buried about 15-30 cm down. The nature of these weaknesses varies greatly from valley to valley.
Make observations and assess conditions continually as you travel.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3