The ski resorts in North Lake Tahoe and Truckee received an additional 17 inches of snow from Wednesday’s storm. Saturday should see another winter storm roll through. The remainder of the MLK holiday weekend promises a perfect opportunity for powder skiing and sunny days.
Thursday was an epic day for powder hounds, but these type of conditions after new and blowing snow can present avalanche danger. The danger is rare inbounds, but becomes more pronounced for back country skiers.
What Causes an Avalanche?
The angle of the slope, condition of snowpack and a trigger are all required for an avalanche to occur. Typically, slopes at an angle of 25 degrees or less do not allow moving snow to pick up speed. Over 40 degrees, snow doesn’t really accumulate. The risk is when a slope is between 25 and 40 degrees, where making freshies is the most fun.
After strong winds, lighter snow can be displaced and form cornices or ridges. Because the snow is much harder below, lighter snow can sometimes slip and shift on top of it. The slope determines how much and how quickly the snow will slide.
Avalanche Safety Tips
Avalanche safety is crucial when venturing into snowy or mountainous environments. This website offers excellent safety tips, gear suggestions and avalanche forecast information for the Sierra Nevada region.
If you are skiing and riding backcountry or on steeper terrain, learning about avalanche safety is a must. Below are tips that can help you stay safe on the mountain:
Education and Training:
Take an avalanche safety course to learn about the fundamentals of avalanches, snowpack, and terrain assessment.
Gain proficiency in using avalanche safety gear, including transceivers, probes, and shovels.
Check Avalanche Forecasts:
Stay updated on avalanche forecasts for the area you plan to visit.
Pay attention to snow conditions, recent weather, and any avalanche warnings.
Travel in Groups:
Always travel with a group, and keep track of each other’s locations.
Have communication devices such as radios or cell phones to stay connected.
Avalanche Gear:
Carry and know how to use essential avalanche safety gear:
Avalanche transceiver (beacon)
Probe
Shovel
Terrain Awareness:
Understand the terrain you are navigating and recognize potential avalanche zones.
Avoid slopes with a steep angle, convex shapes, or areas with recent avalanche activity.
Safe Travel Practices:
Travel one at a time through avalanche-prone areas to minimize risk.
Stay spread out to reduce the load on the snowpack.
Test Slopes:
Test the stability of the snowpack by digging snow pits and performing stability tests.
Look for signs of instability, such as cracking or collapsing.
Weather Conditions:
Be aware of current and forecasted weather conditions, as they can significantly impact avalanche risk.
Rapid changes in temperature, snowfall, or wind can increase the likelihood of avalanches.
Emergency Preparedness:
Have a plan in case of an avalanche, including rescue procedures.
Carry first aid supplies and know how to respond to injuries.
Know Your Limits:
Avoid pushing your limits in unfamiliar or high-risk terrain.
If in doubt, choose safer routes and terrain.
Remember that avalanche safety is a dynamic process, and conditions can change rapidly. Always exercise caution, stay informed, and prioritize safety when in avalanche-prone areas.
For more information click on the Avalanche Forecast Report.
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