Avalanche Advisory for 2016-01-05 07:08:05

Yesterday did not present any new observations and our main focus was the incoming storm and potential impacts. The forecast area is hosting a few different issues: pockets of existing surface hoar now buried by new snow and our old faithful wind/storm slabs. Today is going to present a couple different avalanche problems. Of most concern is the new snow on top of existing surface hoar formations. We've spoken of this widespread surface hoar observed over the forecast area during the past few days. Buried surface hoar is a classic weak layer and potentially dangerous avalanche problem. Above treeline is not a concern for this problem as wind keeps things tidy up there. Rather, below and near treeline where the feathery crystals were preserved, protected areas out of the wind and on cold, shady aspects....these areas are going to be the best areas for preserved surface hoar to, as we speak, be buried by new snow. Aspects NW-N-NE, 6,500 to 8,000 feet will host the best chance of said problem. As new snow accumulates and wind loading exacerbates accumulation, this only adds stress to the weak layer over a very short period of time. Southerly winds will only increase the chance of tipping the stress vs. strength ratio on these northerly aspects. Over the last two hours, over a tenth of an inch of water per hour has fallen on the mountain, or 2 inches of snow per hour. Snow does not like rapid change.

The second concern for today, you guessed it, wind slabs near and above treeline. Winds have been perfect for wind loading... not too windy to completely sublimate the snow, but a nice moderate wind to load leeward slopes to perfection. Wind can load leeward slopes 10x faster than falling snow. Combine high precipitation rates already with wind loading and you get the picture. Leeward W-NW-N-NE-E, or in other words, the top half of the compass rose will be the most heavily wind loaded aspects, again near and above treeline. 

Safe travel techniques should always be followed, regardless of avalanche danger.  Only expose one person at a time to avalanche terrain, regroup in "safe" spots out of avalanche paths, avoid terrain traps, and have open communication with in your group.

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The Sand Flat cross country ski trails are in great shape and ready for your cross country skis or snow shoes. These are backcountry trails marked with blue diamonds on trees. Trails are not groomed.  Snow shoers, please blaze a parallel trail to cross country skiers staying out of the skin track. Thank you, and enjoy!

The Pilgrim Creek Snowmobile Park is open! Trails are being groomed currently. Head to our "Education" tab on our website and find the snowmobile section for trail information, grooming status and other sledder resources!

The Five Red Flags of Avalanche Danger any time of year include:  1) Recent/current avalanche activity  2) Whumpfing sounds or shooting cracks  3) Recent/current heavy snowfall  4) Strong winds transporting snow  5) Rapid warming or rain on snow.