Avalanche forecast

East Cabinet Mountains

Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Thin and generally stable snow can be found at most locations across the Kootenai. The most concerning weakness in the snowpack can be found in spotty locations on north aspects in alpine terrain, which is also where you will also see the most wind loading. Keep these two potential issues in mind if you are travelling into the highest peaks of the Cabinets today.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1.5–2

    Weak and faceted snow developing on the December 7th rain crust can be found at elevations above 7,000' on northerly aspects. This weak layer is found in sporadic locations in higher terrain and will likely be difficult to trigger due to the rain crust near the snowpack surface. Steep and planar (smooth and open) slopes at upper elevations of the East Cabinets are where you may find and trigger this layer. If you are venturing into the high country to ride big and committing terrain, you will want to take the time to assess the presence of this layer before committing.

    Photo: Ben Bernall

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Modest amounts of loose snow on the surface of the snowpack and moderate winds out of the south and west are creating small deposits on north and east aspects near ridgelines and in steep chutes.  Our observations showed these wind deposits to be unreactive this weekend but additional snowfall and increased westerly winds could cause them to be more susceptible to human triggers today.

Avalanche Discussion

Well, El Nino continues to dominate the scene as predicted. While you wait for snow, go ahead and watch the video below for the latest conditions.

Regions covered