Backcountry Snow, Weather, and Avalanche Conditions for Gulmarg 31.1.2015

BELOW TREELINE Below 3,000m – LOW

ALPINE 3,000 to 4,000m – CONSIDERABLE

 

Primary Problem

Wind slabs form where wind has deposited or drifted snow. You will find them on lee aspects, generally near ridge lines, around terrain features and in ‘cross-loaded’ features like vertical ridges, couloirs and gullies. Wind slabs may remain reactive for up to a week after the wind event has ended.

 

Secondary Problem

A persistent slab is any slab formed over a persistent weak layer, in our case, depth hoar. These slabs are hard to predict, often are triggered from the middle or low on the slab, and can propagate over large areas and across terrain features traditionally thought of as safe zones, like ridges, benches, and low angle terrain. The problem can last for weeks or months.

Snowpack discussion

The danger rating in the alpine is considerable, and low below tree line. Likely places for triggering avalanches are near rocks and shallow snow areas on NW, N, NE, and E facing ridgelines. Wait and watch the next storm cycle before choosing larger backcountry objectives.

Weather Discussion for 3000m Clear skies today with minimal winds forecasted. Significant snowfall is forecasted for the coming weekend.

 

Beacon, Shovel, and Probe required to access phase 2 of Gulmarg gondola.