Thursday, April 1, 2010

Avalanche Hazard Warning-Nain Region

Numerous natural slab avalanches (including three human-triggered events) occurred near Nain between January 9-17.

There were also several large wet avalanches during subsequent mild weather periods.

High winds accompanied by new storm snow accumulations since March 25 have formed soft slabs on open slopes at lower elevations.

Hard slabs have formed at higher elevations on wind-loaded slopes.

Some natural avalanches occurred between 25 - 27 March. In many areas the newly deposited storm snow is resting on a thick crust, which formed as the result of the unprecedented mild weather of winter 2010.

Traveling on or near East, South East, East South East, South South East, and South facing slopes should be avoided.

All other cross loaded slopes with new snow deposits are considered suspect.

Traditional land use and recreational activities such as sliding, snow shoeing, snow boarding, and "high-marking" by snow machine should be confined to low risk areas well away from historical avalanche run out zones.


Recreational activities on Nain Hill, at Blow Hole, and other close proximity areas with similar slope features should be avoided until the snow pack becomes stable.

CURRENT AVALANCHE DANGER RATING: CONSIDERABLE

Natural avalanches possible. Human triggered avalanches probable.



Issued: 1330hrs, March 31, 2010

Paul Fenton, CAA ITP LI
Avalanche Safety and Observations
Nain GSAR

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