Backcountry Snow, Weather, and Avalanche Conditions for Gulmarg 5.2.2015

 

ALPINE   3,000 to 4,000 meters  – CONSIDERABLE

BELOW TREELINE below 3000m  – CONSIDERABLE

                                                                                    

Primary 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.

Secondary Problem

Wind slabs form where wind has deposited or drifted snow. You will find them on lee aspects, generally near ridgelines, 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.

Snowpack discussion

The danger rating in the alpine is considerable, and considerable below tree line.  The primary problem is persistent slab sitting on top of depth hoar. Warm afternoon temperatures yesterday allowed natural releases of large avalanches on this persistent weak layer. The secondary problem is wind slabs, likely spots for triggering wind slab avalanches are just below ridgelines and mid-slope in cross-loaded sheltered areas. Winds were primarily from the South and Southwest, leading to slab formation on Northwest, North, and Northeast facing slopes, with additional storm load on top of these slabs. Keep your slope angles below 30 degrees today and remember that blue skies do not indicate a stable snowpack. I received numerous reports of propagating cracks above and below treeline, and one skier was involved in an avalanche in the backcountry yesterday. The snowpack is touchy in the alpine and below tree line on slopes >30 degrees, especially in the afternoon.

Weather Discussion for 3000m Clear today with light southerly winds.