Bollettino valanghe

West Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
Vedi sulla mappa

Pericolo valanghe

Tue
Alta quota
2 · Moderato
Limite del bosco
2 · Moderato
Sotto il limite
1 · Debole
Open full map
Non aggiornato — questo bollettino è scaduto 6 years ago. Stai vedendo condizioni passate, non il bollettino in corso.

In sintesi

It's possible to trigger an avalanche on wind loaded slopes at upper elevations. Use visual clues to identify and avoid fresh deposits of wind drifted snow on slopes greater than 35 degrees. Expect an active weather pattern through the workweek with rising avalanche danger by Tuesday. 

Problemi valanghivi

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alta quota
    • Limite del bosco
    • Sotto il limite del bosco
    Probabilità
    Possible
    Dimensione
    1

    A few more inches of new snow over the next 24hrs and continued southwest winds may form fresh slabs on leeward slopes and terrain features. Steer around recent deposits of wind-blown snow near ridge crests, in gullies, and unsupported slopes. Pay attention as you transition into wind affected terrain and look for sudden changes in snow surface texture and hardness. Remember that even a small avalanche can have severe consequences if it carries you through rocks or trees. Use small test slopes to assess how new snow is bonding to itself and old snow surfaces. Watch for changing conditions with aspect and elevation and seek out lower angled terrain if you see red flags like shooting cracks, collapses, and recent avalanches. 

    (12/12/2020) Human triggered Wind Slab on the north side of Chair Peak that swept two travelers off their feet.

Avalanche Discussion

Observers in the Stevens Pass and Mt. Baker areas reported 2-4in of new snow and windy conditions on Sunday. Southwest winds scoured some windward slopes down to the crust formed earlier in the week (12/9). Deposits of wind drifted snow were encountered at mid and upper elevations but were small and stubborn to trigger. Although there were no direct observations, pockets of surface hoar may have survived the recent sunshine and wind and could be buried under the new snow in isolated areas on sheltered, shaded slopes at mid-elevations. Carefully assess how new snow is bonding to old snow surfaces and evaluate each steep slope you plan to ride for signs of unstable snow. A more potent storm looks to bring increasing avalanche danger on Tuesday. The early season snowpack that was looking healthy for November has shrunk down in early December and melted quite a bit, so early-season hazards should be expected. Keep an eye out for open creeks, talus fields, buried logs, and small trees.

During the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, continue to follow the latest guidance from local, state, and federal health officials. Avoid unnecessary risks that could impact first responders and stress medical resources.  Wear a mask when appropriate, practice social distancing, and consider recreating closer to home.

Regioni coperte