Avalanche forecast

Bridgeport Avalanche Center

Bridgeport Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Strong winds have produced slabs of unstable snow on leeward terrain features, and these will continue to form throughout the day. Avoid areas below cornices, and cross loaded slopes and gullies with little tree cover. Late in the day, blowing snow and new snowfall may create poor visibility, so increase your distance from places that wind slabs could be. More enjoyable conditions and better visibility will be in the trees.

 

 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Before winds began yesterday, surface snow was cold and light, providing ample snow for wind transport. Strong winds have now redistributed snow, resulting in firm conditions on windward terrain, and unstable wind slabs on leeward terrain. Strong winds and light snow often create irregular wind loading patterns, leading to uncertainty about the size and distribution of wind slabs today. Expect the unexpected if you choose to travel in wind loaded terrain - some areas could "feel" safe, while just a few feet away lurks a wind slab.

     

Avalanche Discussion

Wind blown snow rests on firm crusts and weak, sugary facets – neither of which makes for easy bonding.

Non-avalanche hazards include firm conditions where old surfaces remain exposed or shallowly buried by recent snow, and shallowly buried obstacles normally expected during the early season.

A major storm is forecast to arrive tonight, and avalanche danger will increase significantly. With weak facets under the surface, our current snowpack is not prepared for the new loading. Expect a natural avalanche cycle and travel impacts over the next several days.

Regions covered