Unstable wind slabs in Bridger Range

Unstable wind slabs in Bridger Range

Date
Activity
Skiing

We skied in the Bridger Range where unstable snow was not widespread, but does exist on previously wind-loaded slopes. Weak snow exists on all slopes, and where a wind slab sits over this weak snow you can trigger a dangerous avalanche. Attached pit profile from Hourglass shows a wind loaded slope, and other pit profile is in more sheltered terrain.

Slopes without a slab on top of the weak snowpack are less likely to produce a slab avalanche, but even the slightest bit of a supportable slab could easily break on the weak snowpack. Also, the sugary, weak snowpack is easily entrained by smaller slides causing more powerful loose snow slides on sustained steep terrain.

Wind was moderate at the ridge, but not transporting any snow. Light wind below the ridge. Temps near to above 0 C. Broken to Overcast skies.

Region
Bridger Range
Location (from list)
Hourglass Chute
Observer Name
Alex Marienthal