Loose Wet
- Alta quota
- Limite del bosco
- Sotto il limite del bosco
- Probabilità
- Possible
- Dimensione
- 1–2
Sunny conditions and mild temperatures will destabilize the snow surface, making loose snow avalanches possible on steep slopes ranging from E-S-W. Humans may trigger these avalanches or they can release naturally near exposed rocks/cliff bands. They begin at a point and fan out to collect debris as they move downslope. They are commonly small but can pack a punch in the wrong terrain or push a rider into consequential areas.
Watch for obvious signs that the warm sun is wetting the surface of the snow. Thinly covered rocks and cliffs are the first areas to shed. Small roller balls or pinwheels of moist snow can be an early warning that loose snow slides may follow. Pay attention to what's above you. You can largely avoid this problem by sticking to colder, shaded aspects or lower-angle terrain.
Exercise caution near or under cornices, as these beasts can fail unexpectedly and trigger larger avalanches.
(3/8/2025)
Wet loose avalanche activity in the steep/rocky south facing terrain of Avalanche Canyon. We watched this avalanche occur around noon today. Maybe pushing the limits of a D1 avalanche. It would have certainly knocked you off your feet.
Photo: Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center