Sunday, March 11, 2012

Snow Report: Mar 11/12 - Dangerous Conditions

Hello - sorry I have been remiss. It warmed up to +9 here on Sat and the yard was a layer of slush on a couple layers of compressed snow. Today it snowed all day - wet big flakes. Not accumulating a whole bunch down here as it was so wet. Couldn't see the mountains at all.

There was a SPAW (Special Avalanche warning) for the weekend with the sudden warm weather acting on the big dump of snow we got and winds moving things around. Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the sledder caught in the Corbin area avalanche. Please if you can hold off of sledding for a few days I would - just let this weather play out and watch the reports daily to gauge your next outing. Especially if you are in unfamiliar territory. Knowing the history of terrain (that comes down often, that every now and again) and the prevailing winds is so very important now that even below treeline the danger is serious and on most unsuspecting slopes and convex aspects. Frequent discussions with other members of the local sledding community is always a good idea. ALWAYS wear your beacon and carry your shovel and probe on your body not your sled.

I was in Pincher on Saturday and it was +11 and no sign of snow at all and we still have a lot of snow - you can ride out the back gate easily although with this warm weather and lots of guests it has gotten rougher. When it cools down we'll be able to groom. The Corbin groomer is down for a repair so it has gotten a bit rough there also.

So be careful, plan your next avy course, buy equipment you require and practice with the guy or gal you ride with. Thanks gang. Verlee

No comments: