THIS AVALANCHE ADVISORY EXPIRED ON February 5, 2022 @ 7:00 am
Avalanche Advisory published on February 4, 2022 @ 7:00 am
Issued by Eric Morgan - Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center

Selkirks/Cabinets

bottom line

Currently a fairly stable snowpack with isolated areas of windslab that sits on a weak surface hoar layer that will be come more reactive with expected increasing snow and winds today.

How to read the advisory

Selkirks/Cabinets

How to read the advisory

Currently a fairly stable snowpack with isolated areas of windslab that sits on a weak surface hoar layer that will be come more reactive with expected increasing snow and winds today.

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: Wind Slab
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  • Aspect/Elevation ?
  • Likelihood ?
    Certain
    Very Likely
    Likely
    Possible
    Unlikely
  • Size ?
    Historic
    Very Large
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    Small

Isolated areas of windslab were found on upper peak and ridgetops in the Selkirks yesterday at 6500 feet.  Compression tap test of 6 about 10 inches down on the surface hoar layer formed during the recent high pressure.  As new snow comes in and brings more of a slab to sit on the weak layer, expect more reactivity depending on how much we get.  

advisory discussion

In the Selkirks yesterday we found decent sliding conditions with some challenging areas due to the dust on crust scenario.  The bond is weak to the icecrust and just above the crust a few inches there is a widespread surface hoar layer that exists but was not very reactive at this time due to the low amount of load and the low density of snow that sits on it.  As precipitation and winds increase today, expect the avalanche stability to decrease and the weak layer to get tested.  

recent observations
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Note the surface hoar layer and the windloading on NE aspect as shown in the Selkirk Range yesterday.  

Weather and CURRENT CONDITIONS
weather summary

70 percent chance of snow with 26 degrees and up to 4 inches with breezy winds out to the SW 14-23G36 MPH.  Todays weather will be followed by partly sunny and fairly calm weather throughout the outlook period.  

Weather observations from the Region
0600 temperature: 22 deg. F.
Max. temperature in the last 24 hours: 27 deg. F.
Average wind direction during the last 24 hours:
Average wind speed during the last 24 hours: mph
Maximum wind gust in the last 24 hours: mph
New snowfall in the last 24 hours: inches
Total snow depth: inches
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.