Avalanche forecast

Avalanche forecast

Payette Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Triggering a 6–12-inch wind slab above 7,000 feet is possible. Use caution on exposed and leeward slopes above 7,000 feet which could be southern given the recent Northern gusty winds.

Triggering a dry loose avalanche in the upper 1-2 feet of the snowpack, on slopes steeper than 35 degrees, is possible.

Use caution near steep slopes with terrain traps like cliffs and gullies or chutes as moving snow can push you into bad places.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Dry

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    The upper foot of the snowpack is loose and dry. Monday we were able to get a lot of snow moving with us in front of our snowmobiles that could push a person around on a steep slope, and into a bad place. 

    Steep terrain, steeper than 35 degrees exposed to cliffs or other terrain traps could become dangerous if not approached with cautious sluff management techniques. Areas at mid elevations and other areas protected from the wind area going to have more soft snow to slide with you.

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    Northern Winds have been light to moderate with some strong gusts that moved snow on Monday. Fresh wind slabs may be found on unusual slopes like Southern or solar aspects. Use extra caution on steep, exposed slopes above 7,000 feet. Look for clues as to which way the wind has blown the snow, and avoid wind loaded steep slopes that have cornices or have other indicators of loading. If you are seeing cracking or hearing whoomphs move to a lower angle slope to travel on.

Avalanche Discussion

Our snowpack has shown signs of stability, yet the upper foot is holding some weak layers consisting of crusts and facets and buried surface hoar, all equating to a loose upper snowpack that is dry and cold. Good travel protocols and situational awareness is going to still be a great idea to increase your margin of safety in the mountains. Enjoy the sun, but don't let your guard down. Travel on steep slopes 1 at a time as to not risk having your whole group in an avalanche.

  As the sun warms the surface during the next few bright, clear days we will likely only see minor wet loose avalanches on the steepest terrain facing the sun...this should be minimal, or relatively harmless, D-1- given the cool North winds. 

Today's forecast is sponsored by Brundage Mountain Resort. Thank you for supporting the PAC!