Avalanche Forecast

You may still be able to trigger a lingering storm slab avalanche 1-3ft deep near and above treeline. Of most concern are north-facing convex/unsupported slopes steeper than 35 degrees above 5000ft. The storm snow is starting to gain strength, but this major recent storm event should give us pause, especially because all the new snow fell on a thin early season snowpack. Carefully gather information as you travel, and ease into terrain slowly. Steer around large, steep, unsupported, rocky, slopes at upper elevations. When in doubt, default to lower-angled terrain. Avalanches are unlikely below treeline where recent wet heavy snow has become firm and frozen with cooling temperatures.

Release of a soft cohesive layer (a slab) of new snow that breaks within the storm snow or on the old snow surface. Storm-slab problems typically last between a few hours and few days. Storm-slabs that form over a persistent weak layer (surface hoar, depth hoar, or near-surface facets) may be termed Persistent Slabs or may develop into Persistent Slabs.

You can reduce your risk from Storm Slabs by waiting a day or two after a storm before venturing into steep terrain. Storm slabs are most dangerous on slopes with terrain traps, such as timber, gullies, over cliffs, or terrain features that make it difficult for a rider to escape off the side.

Storm slabs usually stabilize within a few days, and release at or below the trigger point. They exist throughout the terrain, and can be avoided by waiting for the storm snow to stabilize.