Loose Wet
- Alpin
- Limite forestière
- Sous la limite forestière
- Probabilité
- Possible
- Taille
- 1–1.5
On Saturday, lingering high clouds resulted in sustained overcast skies, keeping the sun's impact on the snow surface to a relative low given the air temps. Sunday is looking to have pretty similar temperatures, but clear sunny skies could result in increased possibility of small wet loose avalanches.
The Spring diurnal cycle we have been in creates relatively predictable avalanche problems, often dictated by two things - the overnight freeze, and the solar impact to the snow surface. Timing is critical during these cycles; the best way to understand timing is to consider how cold it got overnight, coupled with present air temps (including temperature trend) and sky cover. Saturday night forecasts show lows in the mid 20's at mid elevations, which should give the surface a solid refreeze and prevent a haste resurfacing of any wet loose problems. That being said, never underestimate the strength of the sun this time of year. Assess the snow surface throughout your day, and if you notice any natural wet loose releases, rollerballing, or boot penetration greater than ~8", consider a change in aspect or slope angle. Small slides can still have high consequence when in the presence of terrain traps like trees, cliffs or rocks downslope from you. Keep your snow brain turned on and make smart decisions as you enjoy the bountiful corn harvest.