More of the same

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

By Brigid Mander

Jackson Hole, Wyo.-Blue skies and no new snow to speak of marked our last week of weather, and it looks like the forecast calls for more of the same  this coming week. By now, sun crusts, re-frozen chunk, and glazed mountain flanks have made an ugly appearance on

much of our terrain. Powder is still out there, but it is mostly confined to places that require a bit of work to get to. The winds are still at it, though, and the danger from wind loaded starting zones remains.

Most likely, triggering these zones will result in small loose slabs, but that danger
will differ from place to place, and worse consequences are always possible.

In general, warm temperatures are supposed to continue up high, with inversions cooking the upper elevations. This is going to make things very springy, which means if you plan on skiing aspects in the sun or traveling on such slopes, get out early. The size of roller balls (bigger is bad) and the presence of point releases will help you clue in on whether it is getting too warm and too late in the day to still be on the way to your line.


PERMALINK:
More of the same | Planet JH News Article: Snow Report Column

Leave a Comment