Avalanche forecast

East Cabinet Mountains

Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Generally stable snowpack conditions are present across the Kootenai area. Stiff pockets of windslab exist on north and east aspects above treeline. Triggering these wind slabs is unlikely, but not impossible. Our current surface conditions include surface hoar growth below treeline and firm crust layers above treeline. These surface conditions will provide a slippery surface for the next round of snow predicted late Sunday and into Monday.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Southwest winds have been prevalent at upper elevations during the past week and it's effects are very obvious at upper elevations. The surface snow on exposed aspects (south and west facing) has been scoured and packed to create a firm surface. The windslabs that formed are now very stubborn and unlikely to be triggered. Terrain steeper than 35 degrees above treeline on north and east aspects may have some lingering potential for human triggered avalanches. If you are looking at lines in what would be considered "extreme" terrain make a thorough assessment before committing.

    The shady side of the mountain in steep, cliffy terrain is where you may be able to trigger a small windslab and get into trouble. Low likelihood but high consequence situations should be considered carefully.

Avalanche Discussion

 Thursdays' travels took us into the East Cabinets. Our observations continue to reveal a snowpack that is strong and stable with some weakness close to the surface.  Area wide we are seeing some failure in the upper 4-8" of the snowpack near crust layers, but they are showing a low likelihood of propagation.  These currently stable conditions will require us to keep an eye on the snowpack surface ahead of our next storm.  In sheltered terrain there is surface hoar growing near the inversion layer. In open and exposed terrain we have some pretty firm surfaces out there. The combination of wind and sun has made for a snowpack that is firm and stable; but, it has also created a very poor surface for future snowfall to adhere to. So while, we are looking good right now from a snowpack stability perspective, when the next storm rolls in on Sunday night we will want to pay attention to how much snow falls and how cohesive the new snow is. Best case scenario would be a cold and modest snowfall to improve the riding conditions. If the storm rolls in with warm temperatures or strong winds it will be time to dial back your terrain choices at all elevation bands.

From what I am seeing out there the best riding conditions are in sheltered areas and zones north of the Kootenai River. The rain crust is less prevalent in the Purcells than the Cabinets. There isn't much soft snow left in the East Cabinets above Treeline at the moment!

Regions covered