Snake River Range

Problemi valanghivi

• 

  Persistent Slabs

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Alta quota
  • Limite del bosco
  • Sotto il limite del bosco

  Probabilità

  Possible

  Dimensione

  1.5–2.5

  You're unlikely to trigger a very large avalanche that fails on deeper weak layers buried up to 3 feet at middle and upper elevations. Rapid settlement and increasing temperatures create some uncertainty regarding the reactivity of the new slab sitting on these weak layers. At lower elevations where the snowpack is thinner and temperatures are warmer, avalanches will be possible. This layer can be found in pits and can still show propagation but is deep and less likely to be impacted. While the likelihood is decreasing, the consequences of triggering a very large avalanche on this layer remain high. The best way to manage this problem is to give yourself a safety margin around very steep slopes while the snowpack continues to adjust. 

  

• 

  Loose Wet

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Alta quota
  • Limite del bosco
  • Sotto il limite del bosco

  Probabilità

  Likely

  Dimensione

  1–2

  Wet snow avalanches will become likely, and the threat of natural and human-triggered avalanches will increase throughout the day. With clear sunny skies, recent snow will quickly destabilize, causing wet loose avalanches on solar aspects. The largest of these will occur on very steep, rocky slopes directly facing the sun, where solar input is greatest. These avalanches often initiate as a 'point release' near exposed rocks or the base of trees and grow in size as they travel downhill. This problem will follow the sun, starting with SE aspects and wrapping around to S and W as the sun moves across the sky. Watch for early indications of a warming snow surface such as rollerballs, pinwheels, or damp snow. Even a small wet avalanche can quickly knock you off your feet and drag you downhill.  Give yourself options, including low-angled routes and exits not threatened by steep sunny slopes above. Seek cooler, shaded terrain if you find snow becoming wet and unstable.