Avalanche forecast

Bridgeport Avalanche Center

Bridgeport Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 4 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

A shift in the weather will start today.  As we enter another round of low pressure systems with high winds from varying directions.  Be aware of increasing avalanche danger as the next series of storms moves into the region.   Avalanche danger will increase this afternoon and for the next several days, at all elevations and aspects.  Plan accordingly, avoid avalanche terrain and be prepared for the incoming storm and periods of possible white out conditions.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    A High Wind Warning is in effect for the Sonora Junction area starting at 1 pm today.  Increasing winds throughout the day will bring an increase in wind transported snow and wind slab danger. The wind direction will start from the SW and shift to the NW- W by tomorrow with gust predicted over 100 mph on ridge tops, above treeline.  Mid slope gusts could reach up 90 mph.  

    If traveling in the backcountry today, be ready for increasing winds, avalanche danger with decreasing temperatures and visability.  Stay in the trees for better visability during those moments of white out conditions. Travel with a partner and always have a set of plans with contingencies. Always let others know your plans.

Avalanche Discussion

Recent observations and things to keep in mind during this next storm cycle:

  • Sun exposed,  south facing slopes were starting to enter a melt freeze cycle during the past week, with the warmer daytime temperatures.  Which indicates improved bonding on such slopes.
  • There is still the possability of old weak, hard to trigger layers existing on north shaded slopes, about one to two feet below the snow surface.  No recent recorded avalanche activity, suggests these layers are bonding.
  • When considering where avalanches are in the snowpack, give a look to the Spatial Distribution chart in the Media Gallery. It provides a great reference to how and where avalanches are distributed on slope.
  • This coming week will be very cold with periods of unsettled precipitation. How will it affect our current snowpack?

 

 

 

 

Regions covered