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Where did this nasty layer come from?
It was formed during the string of cold clear nights in early January and is widely distributed across the range. On January 8th we received a small amount of snow that came in without wind and preserved it. At this point, there is 18"- 24" of snow on top of it.
How long will it stay like this?
Unfortunately the surface hoar is super well preserved in our snowpack. It pains me to say it, but, this layer could be with us until it melts in the spring.
What are the consequences of triggering an avalanche in the SH?
Riders are pulling out hard slabs 1.5 - 2 feet in depth. So far, no one has been totally buried or killed, but I suspect this is only because the slab isn't deep enough yet. As we begin to add more load (snow) to the equation, we're looking at a pretty scary situation.
What can I do to avoid triggering a surface hoar avalanche?
Here's where it gets tricky. First, familiarize yourself with the recent surface hoar (SH) avalanches. Most of the activity has been at and above treeline on slopes that face N, NE & E. With the recent warm temperatures, this is also the place where the best riding will be.
Abstinence is the best policy, by avoiding the above mentioned terrain, you're going to avoid a SH avalanche. If that doesn't sound like fun, then you're going to need to be very diligent about assessing slope stability before jumping onto them. Really, you're going to need to dig down and identify the SH and test it to see how it's behaving. You can also tweak small test slopes to see how they're behaving, but, I wouldn't bet the house on that test alone.
If testing is a bit too complex, then avoid slopes that are N, NE & E facing at and above treeline. Even if you're in the flats or meadows, be sure that there isn't more serious terrain above you.
Last, if you do see or trigger an avalanche, please, let us know. Photos are the best! You can report these events here, or see our contact info in the general announcements. |
