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Avalanche Forecast

Archived

Feb 13th, 2019–Feb 14th, 2019

Alpine
Natural avalanches possible, human triggered probable.
Treeline
Natural avalanches possible, human triggered probable.
Below Treeline
Natural avalanches unlikely, human triggered possible.
Alpine
Natural avalanches possible, human triggered probable.
Treeline
Natural avalanches possible, human triggered probable.
Below Treeline
Natural avalanches unlikely, human triggered possible.

Regions

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Just as avalanche conditions were slowly lowering, here we go again. Another round of East winds will re-distribute recent heavy snowfall onto unusual aspects. Wind slabs may develop on open slopes below treeline. Pay attention to loading patterns; aspects that were recently drifted may become stripped by the end of the day. Stay safe by choosing less wind affected and moderately angled terrain. 

Discussion

Snow and Avalanche Discussion

Staying safe on Thursday requires thinking about a mix of new and old avalanche concerns. Rather than trying to manage a complex scenario, choose simpler terrain not capable of producing large avalanches.

An amazing amount of snow, 4-5 feet, has fallen in the West Slopes South zone since the weekend, with the storm cycle peaking Monday night and Tuesday. These storm numbers alone should raise your avalanche alarm bells! 

Natural and triggered slab avalanches that were widely reported in the Crystal area Tuesday were generally less reactive and widespread by Wednesday. Very little natural or skier triggered avalanche activity was reported in the White Pass area. Paradise has been closed for several days due to winter storm conditions. 

It's important to note we have had limited field observations over this stretch due to the strong storm conditions. Based on the information we do have, all the recent snow is sitting on a hard crust, but unlike in adjacent forecast zones, a weak snow(facet)/crust combo isn't widespread and/or reactive. 

We've received a lot of snow over the last few days. The risk of tree well and snow immersion suffocation is real in the trees. Don't travel alone and always keep in contact with your partner. You can learn more about deep snow safety here.

Snowpack Discussion

New Regional Synopsis coming soon.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind Slab avalanches are the release of a cohesive layer of snow (a slab) formed by the wind. Wind typically transports snow from the upwind sides of terrain features and deposits snow on the downwind side. Wind slabs are often smooth and rounded and sometimes sound hollow, and can range from soft to hard. Wind 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.

Storm Slabs

Storm Slab avalanches are the release of a cohesive layer (a slab) of new snow that breaks within new snow or on the old snow surface. Storm-slabs typically last between a few hours and few days (following snowfall). 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.