Topic Tag: pro 1

Checking the avalanche forecast and understanding the avalanche hazard rating for the day is important. It is also important to dig deeper and understand what, if any, avalanche problems are forecasted for the day.

Understanding avalanche problems can aid in more effective route planning. If there is a forecasted wind slab problem at upper elevations on ENE aspects, you can plan a route that avoids these areas, or you can plan a route into this zone with a backup plan for if the problem is present.

Let’s take a deep dive in to Avalanche Problems with Don Carpenter.

Now let’s talk about the individual avalanche problems one by one.

And now let’s spend a little time discussing how avalanche problems fit in to the forecasting process.

Recognizing and understanding avalanche terrain is an essential skill as an avalanche professional.  We will spend time in the field most days discussing avalanche terrain and how to manage it.  You will have the opportunity to complete a terrain analysis exercise.  Here is an example of that exercise:

On your Pro 1 course, we will assign a piece of terrain and ask you to assess it. Below is a sample terrain exercise worksheet completed by Don Sharaf.

The AM form is used to gather information – including weather station data, the weather forecast, recent avalanche activity, and the avalanche hazard rating. It is also used to take existing data and transform that data into a forecast for the day.

Here is a description of the morning worksheet:

Here is a completed AM form.

The PM form is completed at the end of the day. The goal is to compare the AM forecast with actual observations from the field and analyze whether or not conditions matched the forecast. It is also a place to debrief the day and facilitate communication among a team and foster continued learning.

Here is a closer look at the PM worksheet:

Here is a sample completed PM form.