Energetic and moisture-laden fronts continue to swing rapidly toward the West Coast. An impermanent lull in this latest episode is expected by tonight. Another potent surge is in line to once again impact northern California Monday morning. Red flags of avalanche danger have been flying high over the past 24 hours, and the message is simple: stay off of and out from underneath avalanche terrain.
Wind slabs on small test slopes were easily triggered yesterday. Over the past 3 days, winds have averaged 11-16 mi/hr with gusts to 55 mi/hr, all out of the south-southeast. Slopes facing west, northwest and north are the most heavily wind loaded. Stay completely off steep, wind loaded terrain today.
Storm slabs were easily triggered on small test slopes within the last 24 hours. Additional snowfall will taper today. Another round of heavy precipitation is expected early tomorrow morning. Unstable storm slabs remain an avalanche problem below and near treeline. Stick to slopes less than 30 degrees today.
Remember this adage: When the snowpack is in question, terrain is the answer. HIGH avalanche danger doesn't mean you have to stay home. It's all about being able to recognize avalanche terrain. If you're not in avalanche terrain, you can't get caught in an avalanche. There is plenty of low angle terrain less than 30 degrees out there. Check out this app and go measure some slope angle! Steve's Baddass Avalanche Inclinometer
A packed house! Big thanks to all 61 attendants who came to our second out of four, KBYG Avalanche Awareness presentations last night. Fist bumps to Andrew and staff for hosting us at Deadwood Supply Co. We love that place, and their beer. Check it out. TODAY: Avalanche Rescue Clinic, 9am. Meet Casey and Sam at the closed gate on Castle Lake road.
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