Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Jan 25th, 2012–Jan 26th, 2012

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

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be considerable

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: Glacier.

Avalanche control started early this morning as a result of intense loading of storm snow overnight. Numerous large natural avalanches occurred overnight, and avalanche control operations have already produced several large avalanches.

Avalanche Problems

Storm Slabs

Intense south winds causing heavy drifting, mild temperatures and 20cm of storm snow has added significant load to the snowpack. Cohesive slabs have formed at treeline and above. Natural avalanche activity is wide spread. Cornices are very large.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Likely - Very Likely

Expected Size: 2 - 4

Loose Dry

Where unaffected by wind, 50 cm of low density snow will sluff easily. These loose avalanches move very quickly and pick up mass as they travel. They should not be underestimated.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 2

Wind Slabs

Winds have remained moderate to strong from south causing intense snow transport onto lee features. Some convective loading on windward features is also likely. Snow profiles are producing RB4 whole block down 60. Large avalanches are occurring.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Likely

Expected Size: 2 - 3