Turnagain Pass

A 1-2+’ slab sitting on top of a widespread layer of buried surface hoar continues to warrant caution in the alpine throughout Turnagain Pass. This layer was formed in mid November and was the cause of  dozens of human triggered avalanches over several weeks. Observers continue to find this layer on all aspects above 2000’ and many stability tests still show propagation potential.  However without any major weather factors adding stress to the snowpack this layer is becoming more stubborn and difficult to trigger with time. The places most suspect are large steep slopes (>35 degrees) that haven’t avalanched. Since we don’t have X-ray vision of the entire snowpack and evidence of natural avalanche activity was limited during several storms, uncertainty exists in terrain that hasn’t seen much traffic. The presence of surface hoar within the snowpack should be part of your slope choices today especially if you are venturing into steeper untracked areas. Consider the consequences of an avalanche before committing to a route and always use safe travel protocols. 

• Expose one person at a time
• Group up in safe zones
• Have an escape route planned
• Watch your partners and be aware of other groups around you

 The two photos below are examples of where the buried surface hoar continues to be reactive in test pits. Check out observations from Dec.6 at Sunburst and Dec.5 at Tincan.  

Several wind events over the last week have formed wind slabs near and below ridgetops on a variety of aspects.  Stiff supportable wind slabs formed in thin rocky areas may pop once you are out onto the slab. Be wary of hard over soft snow, hollow sounds and steep slopes with obvious deposition in the start zone.