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Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 30th, 2011–Dec 31st, 2011
Alpine
4: High
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be high
Treeline
4: High
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be high
Below Treeline
4: High
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be high
Alpine
4: High
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be high
Treeline
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable
Below Treeline
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be considerable
Alpine
4: High
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be high
Treeline
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable
Below Treeline
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be considerable

Regions: Glacier.

Size 4 natural and size 2 skier triggered avalanches have occurred in the past 24hrs. While natural activity may decrease, these layers will still be easily triggered by skiers and produce large avalanches. Time to be vigilant and conservative.

Avalanche Problems

Storm Slabs

Over the past 72hrs, 80mm of precipitation has rapidly added to the load overlying a series of weak surface hoar layers. Skiers have been able to release this slab easily. Strong winds are also loading snow onto slopes and triggering avalanches.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Very Likely

Expected Size: 2 - 3

Persistent Slabs

The Dec.11 surface hoar layer is buried by 100-140cm of storm snow. This layer has become very reactive with the additional snow load. Avalanches may propagate widely, be remotely triggered, and fracture above skiers.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Likely

Expected Size: 2 - 4

Deep Persistent Slabs

The base of the snowpack is weak due to facetted crystals from Oct/Nov. These are contributing to large avalanches, especially near glacial ice. Large glide cracks failing near ground are also a significant and unusual concern for this time of year.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 3 - 4