Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Feb 9th, 2014–Feb 10th, 2014

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

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

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Regions: Northwest Inland.

Confidence

Fair - Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Monday

Weather Forecast

The ridge of high pressure and the associated cold arctic air is on its way out giving way to a milder, more zonal pattern. A series of punchy pacific systems will impact the Coast for the forecast period.Monday: Moderate snowfall / Moderate southwest winds / Freezing level at surfaceTuesday: Moderate snowfall / Strong southwest winds / Freezing level at surfaceWednesday: Light snowfall / Strong southwest winds / Freezing level at surface

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were reported. I expect touchy storm slab activity with forecast weather.

Snowpack Summary

A highly variable snow surface includes surface facets, patchy surface hoar in sheltered areas, thin wind slabs, scoured crust, or any combination thereof. Once buried by the forecast storm snow, surface hoar or a thin layer of facets sitting on a hard surface will likely become a persistent weak layer.The mid snowpack is generally strong and well-settled. Basal facets and depth hoar are likely to exist in some areas, but triggering is only a concern in thin and variable snowpack areas with large triggers.

Avalanche Problems

Storm Slabs

Forecast snowfall will likely create a new and reactive storm slab in areas where accumulations are significant. Due to freshly buried weak layers, touchy conditions may persist for a while. Watch for increased triggering in wind-affected terrain.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>The new snow will require several days to settle and stabilize.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 3