Bollettino valanghe

Silver Valley & Bitterroot Mountains

Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center
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Pericolo valanghe

Wed
Alta quota
1 · Debole
Limite del bosco
1 · Debole
Sotto il limite
1 · Debole
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In sintesi

Generally safe avalanche conditions exist, while natural and human-triggered avalanches are unlikely. The snowpack is stable; however, LOW does not mean avalanches are impossible to trigger in isolated areas. Practice safe travel, pay attention to changes in the weather, and watch for unstable snow near isolated terrain features.

Problemi valanghivi

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alta quota
    • Limite del bosco
    • Sotto il limite del bosco
    Probabilità
    Unlikely
    Dimensione
    1–2

    There may be a few shallow slabs of wind-drifted snow lurking about on all aspects above the treeline. Light surface snow with moderate winds could turn into a hazard after just a few hours of wind drifting. Fresh drifts generally have a smooth, rounded appearance, and cracking is a sign of instability. Older, stiff slabs may sound or feel hollow underneath. Expect breezy, southwest winds to mainly impact leeward slopes at higher elevations in the upcoming days.

  • Loose Wet

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

    Light rain and warmer temperatures will affect most of the region below levels of 4800 feet. When meltwater and rain seep into the snowpack, it weakens the surface layer, increasing the likelihood of triggering in isolated areas. Though unlikely, these avalanches can carry a lot of heavy, wet snow, posing a significant danger if you're caught in one. Be cautious and plan your outings to steer clear of very steep slopes at lower elevations where the surface becomes wet or slushy.

Avalanche Discussion

With the presence of mild temperatures and a break in extreme weather, the snowpack has a chance to heal and strengthen. The thick February 3rd rain crust that we are seeing widespread is still acting as a bridge for any instabilities below it. When we are looking for any hazards, our focus is above that rain crust. 

Right now, we are seeing generally stable conditions with well bonded snow and a snowpack that is sitting right side up. Firmer snow is sitting at the base, and gradually gets less dense and lighter as you move up towards the surface. Slopes that were exposed to last week’s strong North/ North east wind may feel firmer and have gotten hardened from the consistent blowing wind. Even though it is unlikely to trigger a wind slab, with strong winds gusting to the mid 30's at ridge lines out of the South west today, it is not impossible. Stay aware of changing snow density when traveling around ridge lines and start zones on steep terrain features. 

Lower elevation slopes will see warmer, above freezing temperatures and moisture. When looking for signs of instabilities, look for pin wheels gaining in size and snow sheeting underfoot when recreating in steep terrain. 

Thank you to everyone who have sent observations in! That valuable data is not only used to help improve forecasts, but also helps out fellow backcountry recreationalists. 

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