THIS AVALANCHE ADVISORY EXPIRED ON December 28, 2019 @ 6:11 am
Avalanche Advisory published on December 27, 2019 @ 6:11 am
Issued by Jeff Thompson - Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center

Selkirks/Cabinets

bottom line

The snowpack is still recovering from 8'' of water in a 48 hour period last weekend. The large amount of water increased the avalanche danger significantly but since then we're trending towards a more stable snowpack. Look for cooling temperatures heading into the weekend.

How to read the advisory

Selkirks/Cabinets

How to read the advisory

The snowpack is still recovering from 8'' of water in a 48 hour period last weekend. The large amount of water increased the avalanche danger significantly but since then we're trending towards a more stable snowpack. Look for cooling temperatures heading into the weekend.

2. Moderate

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Above Treeline
Heightened avalanche conditions on specific terrain features. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully; identify features of concern.

1. Low

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Near Treeline
Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

1. Low

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Below Treeline
Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.
    Heightened avalanche conditions on specific terrain features. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully; identify features of concern.
Avalanche Problem 1: Persistent Slab
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There are 2 thin weak layers in the mid snowpack. Even though the rain percolated through the weak layers, the layers stayed largly in tack. The buried weak layers don't appear to be very reactive to failure. Test results showed increased stability.

 

Avalanche Problem 2: Normal Caution
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There are very different amounts of snow depending on the elevation. Be extra cautious above 5000' where the snowpack is deeper and more complex.

Weather and CURRENT CONDITIONS
weather summary

A weak weather system will bring a couple inches of snow before the weekend

Weather observations from the Region
0600 temperature: 31 deg. F.
Max. temperature in the last 24 hours: 38 deg. F.
Average wind direction during the last 24 hours: SW
Average wind speed during the last 24 hours: 5 mph
Maximum wind gust in the last 24 hours: 10 mph
New snowfall in the last 24 hours: >1'' inches
Total snow depth: 140 cm inches
Two-Day Mountain Weather Forecast Produced in partnership with the Spokane NWS
For 2000 ft. to 4000 ft.
Friday Friday Night Saturday
Weather: Snow Snow 20% chance of Snow
Temperatures: 32 deg. F. 24 deg. F. 33 deg. F.
Wind Direction: SW SW SW
Wind Speed: 3-5 3-7 4-6
Expected snowfall: 1'' in. >1'' in. >1'' in.
For 4000 ft. to 6000 ft.
Friday Friday Night Saturday
Weather: Snow 20% chance of Snow 10% chance of Snow
Temperatures: 22 deg. F. 13 deg. F. 18 deg. F.
Wind Direction: SW SW SW
Wind Speed: 18-20 8-17 8-10
Expected snowfall: 1-3'' in. >1'' in. >1'' in.
Disclaimer

Avalanche conditions change for better or worse continually. Backcountry travelers should be prepared to assess current conditions for themselves, plan their routes of travel accordingly, and never travel alone. Backcountry travelers can reduce their exposure to avalanche hazards by utilizing timbered trails and ridge routes and by avoiding open and exposed terrain with slope angles of 30 degrees or more. Backcountry travelers should carry the necessary avalanche rescue equipment such as a shovel, avalanche probe or probe ski poles, a rescue beacon and a well-equipped first aid kit.  For a recorded version of the Avalanche Advisory call (208)765-7323.