Turnagain Pass

Snow is in a constant state of change.  The rate of change is what matters most when considering avalanche potential.  When snow is forced to change rapidly, it responds by fracturing.  When weak layers have time, in our case over two weeks, to adjust to change (loading), avalanche activity tends to be minimal or non existent.  

The changes that have been occurring and could have an impact on snowmachiners, skiers and snowboarders today are:

Gravity-Cornices
These sometimes giant masses of snow sit precariously above many slopes.  Cornices are slowly bowing to the forces of gravity.  Knowing exactly when they will succumb to these forces and release is difficult to predict.  As such, it is important to avoid being on or under them.  This is important when assessing terrain from the bottom as well as from above.

Faceting-Loose snow avalanches
The surface snow on mainly shaded aspects has been slowly “rotting” away.  This has been gradually improving riding conditions in certain areas.  It is also creating the potential for very low volume sluffing in very steep terrain.  This issue is minor for now.  Remember to be on the lookout for loose snow moving, especially if you are in steep and exposed terrain.  The volume is generally too low to be an issue for snowmachines but could have an effect on skiers and snowboarders.

Both of these issues are relatively straightforward and can be managed by practicing good travel habits.  Expose only one person at a time, use islands of safety when stopping in steep terrain, avoid cornices, and communicate plans within your group effectively.

“Heads Up” conditions in steep terrain
There are plenty of steep slopes with firm surfaces that require a healthy amount of careful and focused travel.  A fall in steep terrain could result in loss of control of a snowmachine or be difficult for skiers or snowboarders to arrest.  Pay attention to the snow surface and learn how to anticipate surface conditions by the look and texture of the snow before you are on it.