Turnagain Pass

With a lack of significant weather over the past 2 weeks, we have seen very little avalanche activity.  Triggering an avalanche is unlikely around much of the forecast area.  Exceptions to this can be found in the following forms:

Old wind slabs
Yesterday’s skier triggered avalanche shows us that it is possible to find pockets of unstable snow.  With only occasional slight bumps in the wind over the last week, slabs that have formed are few and far between.  Localized winds have formed shallow slabs that are sitting on weak snow.  In the mid elevations that weak snow is sitting on a crust, creating the perfect slab/weak layer/bed surface combo.  If venturing into big steep terrain be on the lookout for snow that is stiff or hollow sounding.

Photo below of an avalanche triggered by skiers while bootpacking on the lower flanks of Big Chief in upper Seattle Cr drainage.  2,400′ E facing slope.  100′ across, 200′ vertical. Photo: Billy Finley

Loose Snow Avalanches
Yesterday my partner and I were able to initiate very shallow sluffs in steep terrain.  The volume of these sluffs was very low and they were fast moving.  In sustained steep terrain pay attention to snow that releases from your feet, as it has the potential to knock you over.

With these issues in mind, it is important to avoid complacency by following safe travel protocol:
-Travel one at a time on suspect slopes
-Use islands of safety for spotting or re grouping
-Have an escape route planned prior to committing to a slope
-Communicate decisions and plans well with your partners
-Watch for other groups and avoid exposing yourself and others to avalanche hazard