Bollettino valanghe

East Cabinet Mountains

Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center
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Pericolo valanghe

Wed
Alta quota
2 · Moderato
Limite del bosco
2 · Moderato
Sotto il limite
1 · Debole
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Non aggiornato — questo bollettino è scaduto 3 years ago. Stai vedendo condizioni passate, non il bollettino in corso.

In sintesi

While the overall snowpack remains stable, there is a possibility to trigger small wind slabs in the new snow at elevations above tree line in steep terrain. Avoiding convex rolls and steep terrain that sits directly below ridgeline is the best way to stay out of trouble while enjoying the fresh powder. 

Problemi valanghivi

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alta quota
    • Limite del bosco
    • Sotto il limite del bosco
    Probabilità
    Possible
    Dimensione
    1–1.5

    Steady snowfall and light to moderate winds out of the southwest have been present across the mountains since Sunday. This new snow was showing itself to be well bonded in most locations Monday. In areas near ridgeline that were exposed to the wind there was some obvious transport present, with the new snow being blown off south and west aspects and loading onto north and east facing terrain. Accumulations of approximately 18" were observed directly below ridgelines where the new snow was more dense and slabby under foot. While these wind slabs were easy to find and identify, they were also very difficult to trigger, as the new snow was bonding well with the older snow below it. 

    (2/12/2024) Photo: Ben Bernall

Avalanche Discussion

On Monday the 12th we toured into the West Cabinets to check out the fresh snow. Snowpack stability tests revealed the new snow was settling well and not proving to be prone to producing avalanches. The crust layer that developed during the warm rainy spell late in January is 6" thick and hard as a rock, it has bridged over the weak layers below it, making them a non-issue for the time being. The snow depth above this crust layer varies across the area, but it is well bonded to the crust in most locations, and we have yet to initiate any kind of failure or weakness on this crust. To summarize the avalanche conditions right now, I would say the new snow being blown around in the wind is the primary issue to watch out for. Small wind slabs will be possible to trigger if you find yourself riding in terrain steeper than 35 degrees on north and east aspects directly below ridgeline. As the week progresses and the winds begin to rotate to a north and easterly direction you will want to be alert to the potential to find these slabs on any aspect above treeline this week.

While snowpack coverage and access remain less than ideal, the riding conditions out there are as good as we have seen so far this year. So, get out and enjoy it while you can, who knows what the rest of the season will bring.

 

Regioni coperte