Avalanche forecast

East Cabinet Mountains

Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

New snow  formed windslabs  near ridgelines and cross loaded gullies and will remain possible to trigger in steep terrain. Use caution and avoid areas of wind drifted snow on leeward terrain to minimize your risk.  Consequences of getting caught are amplified near near terrain traps including cliffs, trees, and gully features. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    South and westerly winds from recent storms were strong enough to form windslabs at treeline and above on Monday.  They can be found near ridgelines in leeward terrain primarily on north and easterly aspects. Cracking snow and hollow or drum like sounds under your feet are good indicators you've found them.  Funneling of wind through saddles and around outcroppings has transported enough snow down slope to form windslabs in leeward terrain at middle elevations.   While likely to be small, potential for injury still exists if you are carried over cliffs or into trees.  

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    2–3

    While the likeihood of triggering a persistent slab avalanche is trending down the consequence of doing so remains high.  This problem is most likely to be found in the northern reaches of the Purcell range where where colder temps and a shallower snowpack has allowed these weak layers to persist.  In the East and West Cabinets this problem is less likely to present itself as the snow is deeper and weak layers are bridged by a thick rain crust formed in late Decemer.  Take time to dig into the snow to identify these layers before committing to consequential terrain.

Avalanche Discussion

A couple of weak disturbances brought new snow and a welcome refresh to the region over the last few days.  These weak storms were relatively mild with moderate temperatures and winds from the west and south. Winds associated with these storms however, were strong enough to scour windward terrain and to form fresh wind slabs around leeward features.  Yesterday we found really good riding conditons and stable snow pack at elevations above 4,500'.  We avoided the steepest terrain below ridgelines where windslab development was easily identified.   With moderate and relatively calm weather in the forecast the windslab problem should heal quickly. 

 

 

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