January 9, 2014

Avalanche Outlook for Thursday & Friday:

The avalanche danger is expected to be moderate, but terrain choices should be approached and the snowpack assessed as if it were considerable (click links to view complete danger scale). Of the three elements that comprise a danger rating, two are moderate (likelihood of avalanches, avalanche size & distribution) and one is considerable (travel advice).

The wind slab and persistent slab problems linger and are expected to be the most pronounced on west to north aspects (click links for more information on these types of problems and how to manage them).

Terrain management and safe travel protocols are mandatory for managing risk and mitigating consequences. Identify relatively “safe” spots, have an escape plan, avoid terrain traps, ski one at a time while keeping a close on on your descending partner, etc.

Leave a Reply