Bollettino valanghe

Stevens Pass

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Pericolo valanghe

Sun
Alta quota
2 · Moderato
Limite del bosco
2 · Moderato
Sotto il limite
1 · Debole
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Non aggiornato — questo bollettino è scaduto 6 years ago. Stai vedendo condizioni passate, non il bollettino in corso.

In sintesi

You may still be able to trigger avalanches in recently fallen or drifted snow. Use caution on slopes steeper than 35 degrees that have thickly pillowed or wind-sculpted features. You may be able to trigger small loose avalanches on steep, wind-sheltered, or sun-exposed slopes where snow is soft and uncohesive.

Problemi valanghivi

  • Wind Slabs

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

    You may be able to trigger large avalanches on leeward, wind-loaded slopes near and above treeline. Cornices, wind features, and firm wind-stiffened snow are all signs that the wind has drifted snow. Watch for signs that you could trigger an avalanche such as cracks shooting through the snow and other recent avalanches. Steer around convex roll-overs or thickly drifted features on slopes steeper than 35 degrees. Cornices have become large. Make sure to keep your distance by staying off of them and don't linger under them. 

    Over the weekend, westerly winds transported snow and formed slabs that are now older. On Thursday night into Friday east winds may have been strong enough to form fresh wind slabs just below ridges. Watch for signs of these new slabs.

    Wind features at the top of Highlands Bowl outside of Stevens Pass Mountain Resort on Jan 3rd. Photo: Josh Hirshberg

Avalanche Discussion

A major storm from December 29th through January 6th brought about 6.5" of snow water equivalent to the Schmidt Haus weather station.  Avalanches ran throughout the last week up to size D3. The most recent avalanches were point releases on steep, sunny slopes on Wednesday and Thursday. Slab avalanches within the storm snow occurred throughout the week, but especially on the 2nd, 3rd, and 5th. Back on the 1st, wet avalanches occurred after a rain event to about 5,000ft.

Most recently observers have seen snowpack tests show a trend towards improving conditions with a few lingering storm instabilities in the upper snowpack. With so much snow in such a short amount of time, it's a good idea to take time to assess the snowpack and be cautious around slopes steeper than 35 degrees. 

Falling in tree wells, deep snow immersion, and falling tree bombs are other hazards to consider. Be vigilant around tree wells, and stay close to your partner while traveling through the trees. 

During the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, continue to follow the latest guidance from local, state, and federal health officials. Avoid unnecessary risks that could impact first responders and stress medical resources. Wear a mask when appropriate, practice social distancing, and consider recreating closer to home.

Regioni coperte