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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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Rain earlier in the week has created a rain crust on all aspects and elevations. The snowpack has absorbed the water from the rain and is showing improved avalanche stability and strength. The challenge right now in the backcountry is travel. Travel with a snowmobile or skis is challenging due to the breakable crust on the surface. Avalanche problems still exist in the snowpack but are harder to trigger right now, with the presence of the rain crust.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Wind Slabs in open, steep areas above treeline remain the number one concern related to avalanches. It's become harder to trigger a Wind Slab avalanche dure to the rain crust on the surface but the possibility is still there.  Don't hangout in flat spots below steep open slopes. Don't let your avalanche guard down. Challenging travel conditions can be a distraction from making good travel choices.  

    A picture submitted from the public showing the facet growth on both sides of the crust.

Avalanche Discussion

The deep, light powder of last week is no more. The warm temperatures recently delivered rain to the highest elevations. The rain was quickly followed up with cold temperatures which allowed the rain crust to form on the surface of the snow. The crust is thicker at lower elevations but still prevalent at higher elevations.

The rain crust is thick enough that it minimizes the ability to impact weak layers lower in the snowpack. However, I observed new facets growing on top of and underneath the rain crust which makes me concerned for the subsequent snow that falls on it. This will be the big question moving forward.

When the next round of snow arrives, it’ll be important to know what surface the snow is falling on. If it falls on the surface as it is now, there could be increased avalanche conditions. We’ll continue to monitor the evolution of this rain crust and hope it breaks down before the next storm. Warm temperatures and sun are the best chance to break down the crust.

If you do go out to play, think about your route selection. Traversing is a critical skill! It’s a good time to stay on groomed trails. If you do venture off the groomed, be ready for some adventure riding or skiing.

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