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
Senza grado
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Non aggiornato — questo bollettino è scaduto 3 years ago. Stai vedendo condizioni passate, non il bollettino in corso.

In sintesi

A generally cohesive snowpack exists, yet snowpack depths remain below average. Low danger rating does Not mean zero hazard; while evidence is sparse, you may find isolated instabilities.

Problemi valanghivi

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    A spotty and isolated layer of surface hoar may be found around 2 feet deep in northerly aspects of upper and mid elevation bands. Where it does exist, it is preserved under an early December (7th) rain crust. This surface hoar is highly variable within the weak layer itself as well as its distribution over the terrain. While results are inconsistent, snowpack tests have shown propagation on this layer. It remains as a "Problem Type" since evidence remains in stability tests; however, there is still a low probability of triggering this weak layer. 

Avalanche Discussion

Observations around Tiger Peak yesterday showed that access to good snow is still a bit challenging for the time being. However, with enough determination and creativity, overall stable and soft snow can be found at upper elevations. Pits dug on multiple aspects showed two notable layers can be seen widespread within the snowpack, a rain crust from December 22nd, and a thick and crumbly rain crust from December 7th. A layer of buried surface hoar from November 24th is more difficult to find and can be located directly below the December 7th rain crust in isolated areas. North aspects at upper elevations could be harboring this weak layer, around 2 feet below the surface, and evidence shows there's variability and inconsistency in its ability to propagate. Amazingly, the buried surface hoar persisted through the December 7th rain. This crazy phenomenon is why this weak layer within the snowpack is so tricky. Triggering an avalanche on the buried surface hoar is unlikely, but until we have strong evidence of no reactivity, we will leave persistent slab as a problem type and it should remain on your radar if you choose to recreate in terrain that fits its location description. 

High pressure and mild weather will be the theme for the next few days. Starting Thursday, winter will arrive, and a storm will move in. 

Happy 2024- In honor of the first forecast of the new year, we hope everyone has a great year filled with many deep powder days. 

Regioni coperte