Loose Wet
- Alpin
- Limite forestière
- Sous la limite forestière
- Probabilité
- Possible
- Taille
- 1
Clear overnight skies will provide a brief and superficial snow surface refreeze due to radiational cooling. Overnight low temperatures were in the mid 30's to mid 40's at most locations. Rapid warming occurring early this morning will melt and break down these surface crusts quickly. E-SE-S aspects will melt the fastest and could be wet and unsupportable by mid-morning. SW-W-NW-N-NE aspects will have varied melt rates throughout the day. Timing will be critical if you want, or need, to travel in avalanche terrain today. Loose wet avalanches large enough to injure or bury a backcountry user are possible.
Loose wet avalanches could occur as soon as the snow becomes wet and unsupportable. Changing aspects may help to avoid deteriorating snow conditions. Avoid avalanche terrain as the snow becomes wet and deep.
Photo: Recent loose wet avalanche on Mt. Tallac, Desolation Wilderness area.