Avalanche forecast

Banner Summit

Sawtooth Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Wet snow avalanches are likely in steep, rocky terrain receiving direct sun—be wary of traveling on or below these slopes, especially later in the day.  Cornices are large and may be unstable—give them a wide berth.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    Expect loose snow avalanches on very steep, rocky slopes receiving direct sun. These slides often initiate near the base of trees and rocks, gathering snow and growing in size as they move downhill. Rollerballs, or pinwheels, signify that the snow is heating up, and wet avalanches may soon follow. 

    While most will start small, they will be plenty large enough to knock you off your feet and carry you into unwanted terrain. Even small slides are consequential above terrain traps such as gullies, creeks, and thick timber. Plan your day to avoid lingering under steep, sunny slopes.

    Additional Discussion - Cornices:Cornices are large and may be unstable. Tuesday, we easily triggered a 200' wide and up to 8' thick section of freshly formed cornice. Warming temperatures may cause overhanging cornices to sag and fail. Limit time beneath these features and give them a wide berth when traveling along ridges. 

    (2/20/2025) Several wet loose slides on the steep, craggy terrain near the Boundary parking lot. Photo: Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Avalanche Discussion

A surficial freeze overnight will likely keep wet snow issues at bay this morning. However, with above-freezing temperatures at the upper elevations, the mountains will have a head start on warming, and any surface crusts will quickly break down. As we enter day 3 of warm, sunny weather, many slopes on the southern half of the compass have naturally released. You may not encounter widespread natural avalanches today, but if you do, don’t rule out the possibility of more. A mushy, wet snow surface indicates deteriorating stability, signaling it's time to seek shadier slopes.

The timing of wet snow avalanches can be unpredictable, so be cautious of any slope receiving direct sunlight. Plan your day to avoid traveling on or below steep, sun-drenched slopes—especially later in the day.

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