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Avalanche Forecast

Feb 4th, 2013–Feb 5th, 2013
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: South Rockies.

Confidence

Fair - Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain

Weather Forecast

Tuesday: Light snowfall / Strong to extreme southwest winds / Alpine temperature of about -7.0Wednesday: Light snowfall / Extreme west winds / Alpine temperature of about -9.0 Thursday: Variable cloud in the morning with clearing in the afternoon / Light southwest winds / Alpine temperature of about -8.0

Avalanche Summary

No recent avalanches have been reported.

Snowpack Summary

The snow surface is a combination of wind slab at higher elevations, settled storm snow and spotty surface hoar in more sheltered terrain, and a crust on previously sun-exposed slopes. A variable interface buried on Jan 23 is down about 15-35cm. In most locations it appears to be well bonded; however, buried surface hoar (up to 20mm) has been found in some locations. This will be something to watch as the overlying slab develops. The lower snowpack is generally well-settled.

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Forecast light snowfall and strong southwest winds will create fresh wind slabs. Watch for triggering behind ridgecrests and in gullies.
Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible - Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 2

Persistent Slabs

A mixed bag of weak interfaces is buried about 15-30 cm down. The nature of these weaknesses varies greatly from valley to valley.
Make observations and assess conditions continually as you travel.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3