Bridgeport Avalanche Center

Problèmes avalancheux

• 

  Wind Slabs

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Alpin
  • Limite forestière
  • Sous la limite forestière

  Probabilité

  Likely

  Taille

  1–2

  The arrival of another atmospheric river brings the onset of more snow and wind. Exposed terrain above and near the treeline will allow blowing snow to move uninterrupted through the landscape forming consolidated wind slabs. Fresh snow will be transported throughout the terrain by strong SW winds, depositing wind slabs on leeward slopes and cross-loading gullies. With nearly a foot of new snow in the forecast and the fact that wind can transport snow 3-5x faster than snowfall rates, expect to find  3-5ft thick wind slabs in some locations. Watch for any new avalanches,  especially near ridgetops or on convex slopes to help clue you in on the wind slab problem today.  Take note of locations where wind-textured snow exists and use your sled or skis today to feel how surface conditions change throughout the terrain depending on aspect and wind exposure. 

  

• 

  Storm Slabs

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Alpin
  • Limite forestière
  • Sous la limite forestière

  Probabilité

  Possible

  Taille

  1–2

  With 12 inches of new snow arriving today, sheltered terrain will shield fresh snow from the blustery winds.  New snow will have the chance to settle below the treeline and create a cohesive slab. Firm and refrozen surface conditions will hamper the ability of new snow to bond with the existing snowpack. In addition,  this storm is forecasted to come in "upside down"  meaning cold snow will arrive this morning followed by warmer and more dense snow in the afternoon, creating undesirable and unstable dense snow over the unconsolidated cold snow. A few clues to watch for while in the field include settlement cones, cracks, or collapses within the snowpack. Doing a quick mitt pit can be a simple way to check and see if there is cohesion and slab formation within the new snow.