Here are a couple of articles from beaconreviews.com. The first one talks about "continuous carrier signals" which are the reason that sometimes a digital beacon will indicate more signals than are present.
http://www.beaconreviews.com/transceivers/CCP.asp
The second one is a review of the DSP, it is of the the full bells and whistles version, but the part that is interesting is where it talks about displaying more "little men" than actual buried beacons. This part is applicable to the DSP Tour, which is the version we issue.
http://www.beaconreviews.com/transceivers/Specs_PiepsDSP.asp
Keep in mind that there are many digital beacons that will interpret continuos carrier this way. It's important to note that even though the display may show more little men than the actual number of buried beacons, the process of searching for the beacon is not affected. There is still only one (or two, etc.) signal being searched for and the beacon will interpret it as that.
Keep practicing!
January 31, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 1000
The PNW will begin to dry out tonight as the atmospheric pressure rises. Tomorrow will be mostly dry with clearing.
Long-Range. High pressure will provide warm, dry and partly sunny conditions throughout the weekend.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .25 Snow equivalent = 2-4
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .25
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 2-4
Trend and Timing:
Light precipitation will continue through the afternoon. Snow will taper off overnight.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 28 High: 36
Freezing level: +- 4500’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will continue to hold steady around 4500’ through tomorrow. Sun breaks will allow surface temperatures to rise above freezing tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-10 WSW
Ridge Top: 5-15 WSW
Trend and Timing:
Gusty westerly winds will continue to move through the Pass today. Winds will begin to diminish tonight with light easterly winds developing tomorrow.
Long-Range. High pressure will provide warm, dry and partly sunny conditions throughout the weekend.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .25 Snow equivalent = 2-4
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .25
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 2-4
Trend and Timing:
Light precipitation will continue through the afternoon. Snow will taper off overnight.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 28 High: 36
Freezing level: +- 4500’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will continue to hold steady around 4500’ through tomorrow. Sun breaks will allow surface temperatures to rise above freezing tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-10 WSW
Ridge Top: 5-15 WSW
Trend and Timing:
Gusty westerly winds will continue to move through the Pass today. Winds will begin to diminish tonight with light easterly winds developing tomorrow.
January 30, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 0915
A steady stream of moisture will continue to slide down the western slopes of the Cascades. The upper mountain should keep in snow as the freezing level parks itself around 4500’. Unfortunately, the base area will remain fairly soggy through Thursday morning.
The resort should start to dry out Thursday afternoon with warm and dry conditions expected through the weekend.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .25 Snow equivalent = 1- 4
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .5
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 3-6
Trend and Timing:
The main bulk of moisture tracked south of Stevens Pass this morning. The precipitation will be very light for most of the day. The snow mixed rain will increase tonight and continue through tomorrow.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 30 High: 36
Freezing level: +- 4500’
Trend and Timing:
Temperatures will continue their steady climb for the next few days. Freezing levels will hover right around 4500’ through tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-15 W
Ridge Top: 10-20 W gusty
Trend and Timing:
Strong westerly winds will continue to be a nuisance for the next few days.
The resort should start to dry out Thursday afternoon with warm and dry conditions expected through the weekend.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .25 Snow equivalent = 1- 4
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .5
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 3-6
Trend and Timing:
The main bulk of moisture tracked south of Stevens Pass this morning. The precipitation will be very light for most of the day. The snow mixed rain will increase tonight and continue through tomorrow.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 30 High: 36
Freezing level: +- 4500’
Trend and Timing:
Temperatures will continue their steady climb for the next few days. Freezing levels will hover right around 4500’ through tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-15 W
Ridge Top: 10-20 W gusty
Trend and Timing:
Strong westerly winds will continue to be a nuisance for the next few days.
January 29, 2013
Start Time Wednesday 6:15am
The worlds oldest weather forecasting system says....."January 27-31st Trade Your Snowshoes in for Galoshes"
Mountain Weather Forecast - Time: 1030
The wind and snow will continue today with warming temperatures. Mixed rain and snow can be anticipated tomorrow below 4500’ with the precipitation continuing through early Thursday morning.
Long-range: A clearing trend with day time temperatures above freezing will develop and Friday and continue through the weekend.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .5 -.75 Snow equivalent = 4-7
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = +- .75
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 6-10
Trend and Timing:
Snow will taper off a bit today and then pick back up overnight. Mixed rain and snow can be anticipated on the lower mountain with mainly snow on the higher ridges tonight and tomorrow.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 30 High: 34
Freezing level: 3500’ 4500’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will range between 4500’ and 5000’ after 4am tomorrow. Surface temperatures will continue to inch up as the week progresses.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-15 W
Ridge Top: 10-20 W gust to 40 possible.
Trend and Timing:
Strong westerly winds will continue to pond the mountains through tomorrow.
Long-range: A clearing trend with day time temperatures above freezing will develop and Friday and continue through the weekend.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .5 -.75 Snow equivalent = 4-7
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = +- .75
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 6-10
Trend and Timing:
Snow will taper off a bit today and then pick back up overnight. Mixed rain and snow can be anticipated on the lower mountain with mainly snow on the higher ridges tonight and tomorrow.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 30 High: 34
Freezing level: 3500’ 4500’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will range between 4500’ and 5000’ after 4am tomorrow. Surface temperatures will continue to inch up as the week progresses.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-15 W
Ridge Top: 10-20 W gust to 40 possible.
Trend and Timing:
Strong westerly winds will continue to pond the mountains through tomorrow.
January 28, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 1000
The snowy and windy forecast did not disappoint. Snow will continue through the night.
Snow is expected to continue through early Thursday. The week will finish dry and warmer as high pressure builds off the coast. The weekend appears to be dry/sunny at this time.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .75 -1 Snow equivalent = 8-12
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = +1
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 12-15
Trend and Timing:
Snow will lighten up a bit today and then pick back up tonight. This pattern will repeat tomorrow.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 24 High: 30
Freezing level: 3000’ 3500’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will hover around 3500’ through tomorrow. Temperatures will slowly creep toward 32f as the week progresses.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 10-15 W
Ridge Top: 20-30 WNW gusty
Trend and Timing:
Pesky westerly winds will remain persistent through the next couple of days.
J.Meriwether
Snow is expected to continue through early Thursday. The week will finish dry and warmer as high pressure builds off the coast. The weekend appears to be dry/sunny at this time.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .75 -1 Snow equivalent = 8-12
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = +1
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 12-15
Trend and Timing:
Snow will lighten up a bit today and then pick back up tonight. This pattern will repeat tomorrow.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 24 High: 30
Freezing level: 3000’ 3500’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will hover around 3500’ through tomorrow. Temperatures will slowly creep toward 32f as the week progresses.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 10-15 W
Ridge Top: 20-30 WNW gusty
Trend and Timing:
Pesky westerly winds will remain persistent through the next couple of days.
J.Meriwether
January 27, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 0945
The week will start out snowy and windy as a series of storms slide down the Canadian coast. The main event will be tomorrow as snow intensifies.
Long-range: High pressure building off the Washington coast on Wednesday will produce a dry and warmer end to the week.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .5 Snow equivalent = 4-7
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .5 -.75
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 5-9
Trend and Timing:
Snow will continue to fall through the night. Moisture feeding in from the north will increase the snow overnight and tomorrow.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 24 High: 26
Freezing level: +- 3000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will hover just below 3000’ through noon tomorrow. Temperatures will spike up near freezing late tomorrow night.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-10 W
Ridge Top: 10-20 WNW
Trend and Timing:
Strong westerly flow will accompany these storms. Watch for persistent high winds along the upper ridge tomorrow. Winds shift NW but remain steady tomorrow night.
Long-range: High pressure building off the Washington coast on Wednesday will produce a dry and warmer end to the week.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .5 Snow equivalent = 4-7
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .5 -.75
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 5-9
Trend and Timing:
Snow will continue to fall through the night. Moisture feeding in from the north will increase the snow overnight and tomorrow.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 24 High: 26
Freezing level: +- 3000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will hover just below 3000’ through noon tomorrow. Temperatures will spike up near freezing late tomorrow night.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-10 W
Ridge Top: 10-20 WNW
Trend and Timing:
Strong westerly flow will accompany these storms. Watch for persistent high winds along the upper ridge tomorrow. Winds shift NW but remain steady tomorrow night.
January 26, 2013
Weekend Weather Breifing
Models are quickly changing as a north south storm track develops over the next few days. The approaching storm is beginning to gain energy as it slides down the southern BC coast. Forecast models are increasing snow accumulation amounts for Monday and Tuesday with each run. This will be a cold snow event which will surely make the avalanche conditions engaging.
72hr (by 4amTuesday) snow accumulation model
The main precipitaion does seem to be confined to the western slopes. It will be interesting to see how far east the bulk of the snow reaches.
J.Meriwether
January 25, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 0915
Some remnant snow showers will linger in the mountains today. The atmosphere will remain unstable allowing light passing snow showers to continue through the weekend.
Long-term: Snow showers with cool temperatures will continue into early next week. Models differ in their interpretation beyond Monday so I will leave until later.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = <.25 Snow equivalent = 1-3
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .25
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 2-4
Trend and Timing:
With the exception of a few light showers, the snow will virtually taper off this afternoon with a relatively dry night to follow. Snow showers will develop tomorrow.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 25 High: 32
Freezing level: 4000’ 2500’
Trend and Timing:
Cool air from the NW will slowly trickle in during the next few days. This will allow freezing levels to remain well below Pass level through the weekend.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5- SE
Ridge Top: 5-10 SW
Trend and Timing:
Winds will remain light today. Light westerly flow is expected through the weekend.
J.Meriwether
Some remnant snow showers will linger in the mountains today. The atmosphere will remain unstable allowing light passing snow showers to continue through the weekend.
Long-term: Snow showers with cool temperatures will continue into early next week. Models differ in their interpretation beyond Monday so I will leave until later.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = <.25 Snow equivalent = 1-3
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .25
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 2-4
Trend and Timing:
With the exception of a few light showers, the snow will virtually taper off this afternoon with a relatively dry night to follow. Snow showers will develop tomorrow.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 25 High: 32
Freezing level: 4000’ 2500’
Trend and Timing:
Cool air from the NW will slowly trickle in during the next few days. This will allow freezing levels to remain well below Pass level through the weekend.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5- SE
Ridge Top: 5-10 SW
Trend and Timing:
Winds will remain light today. Light westerly flow is expected through the weekend.
J.Meriwether
January 24, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 0945
A few inches of fresh snow and sunshine, not a bad start to the day. Clouds will thicken throughout the day as a warm front approaches the Pacific Northwest. Rising temperatures and snow are expected tonight with snow showers continuing tomorrow.
Long-range: Light snow showers are expected to continue through the weekend. Weak systems are expected to continue to bring light snow showers to the mountains through most of next week.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .25 Snow equivalent = 2-4
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .5
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 3-5
Trend and Timing:
Snow should arrive sometime after 4pm today. There is a slight chance of some rain mixed in with the snow later tonight or early tomorrow morning. The rain snow mix should be short lived and barely noticeable. Light snow showers are expected tomorrow.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 26 High: 34
Freezing level: 2500’ 4000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will rise to 4000’ through the day. Surface temperature should remain at or just below freezing.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 E
Ridge Top: 5-10 SE shifting W
Trend and Timing:
East flow will develop at the surface today. The upper ridges will see SE flow shifting to westerly flow over the next 24hrs.
Long-range: Light snow showers are expected to continue through the weekend. Weak systems are expected to continue to bring light snow showers to the mountains through most of next week.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .25 Snow equivalent = 2-4
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .5
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 3-5
Trend and Timing:
Snow should arrive sometime after 4pm today. There is a slight chance of some rain mixed in with the snow later tonight or early tomorrow morning. The rain snow mix should be short lived and barely noticeable. Light snow showers are expected tomorrow.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 26 High: 34
Freezing level: 2500’ 4000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will rise to 4000’ through the day. Surface temperature should remain at or just below freezing.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 E
Ridge Top: 5-10 SE shifting W
Trend and Timing:
East flow will develop at the surface today. The upper ridges will see SE flow shifting to westerly flow over the next 24hrs.
January 23, 2013
Pass Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 0915
This morning’s radar shows the leading edge of the approaching moisture just about to reach the mountains. Tomorrow will be mostly dry with more snow expected tomorrow night.
Long-range: Light scattered snow showers with sun breaks can be expected on Friday and lasting through the weekend.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = >.5 Snow equivalent = 3-5
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = > .5
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 3-5
Trend and Timing:
Light snow should fall through most of the afternoon. Snow will taper off this evening with the next wave of moisture entering the mountains tomorrow afternoon.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 22 High: 26
Freezing level: +- 3000’
Trend and Timing:
There will be some minor fluctuation in the temperatures as these fronts come and go. But for the most part, freezing levels will remain steady around the 3000’ level.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-10 E shifting W
Ridge Top: 5-15 E shifting W and strengthening
Trend and Timing:
Westerly winds should kick in once the front moves through later today. Gusty westerly winds can be expected through the night.
Long-range: Light scattered snow showers with sun breaks can be expected on Friday and lasting through the weekend.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = >.5 Snow equivalent = 3-5
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = > .5
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 3-5
Trend and Timing:
Light snow should fall through most of the afternoon. Snow will taper off this evening with the next wave of moisture entering the mountains tomorrow afternoon.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 22 High: 26
Freezing level: +- 3000’
Trend and Timing:
There will be some minor fluctuation in the temperatures as these fronts come and go. But for the most part, freezing levels will remain steady around the 3000’ level.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-10 E shifting W
Ridge Top: 5-15 E shifting W and strengthening
Trend and Timing:
Westerly winds should kick in once the front moves through later today. Gusty westerly winds can be expected through the night.
January 22, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 1030
Today will stay dry but cooler. An active weather pattern will begin tomorrow as the northern jet stream begins to shifts toward the Pacific Northwest.
Long-range: Another front brings more snow to the mountains on Thursday with light snow showers anticipated on Friday and Saturday.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = >.10 Snow equivalent = trace
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .25
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 2-4
Trend and Timing:
A cold front will bring snow to the mountains after 4am tomorrow. Snow will continue through the day with of short lived convergence period possible tomorrow evening. Storm totals by 4am Sunday = +.5”
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 24 High: 32
Freezing level: 5000’ 3000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will fall below 4000’ with the arrival of the front tomorrow morning.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-10 E
Ridge Top: 5-10 E
Trend and Timing:
East flow will continue through noon tomorrow. Winds will shift westerly and strengthen tomorrow evening.
Long-range: Another front brings more snow to the mountains on Thursday with light snow showers anticipated on Friday and Saturday.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = >.10 Snow equivalent = trace
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .25
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 2-4
Trend and Timing:
A cold front will bring snow to the mountains after 4am tomorrow. Snow will continue through the day with of short lived convergence period possible tomorrow evening. Storm totals by 4am Sunday = +.5”
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 24 High: 32
Freezing level: 5000’ 3000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will fall below 4000’ with the arrival of the front tomorrow morning.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-10 E
Ridge Top: 5-10 E
Trend and Timing:
East flow will continue through noon tomorrow. Winds will shift westerly and strengthen tomorrow evening.
January 21, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast - Time: 0930
High pressure over the PNW will continue to dominate the weather pattern with more warm temperatures and sunshine for the mountains.
Long-range: Change is anticipated by the middle of the week as the high pressure slowly degrades. Models have a cold front moving through on Wednesday. This should bring some snow to the mountains.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am =0 Snow equivalent =0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow =0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow =0
Trend and Timing:
No precipitation expected until Wednesday.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 30 High:48
Freezing level: 8000’ 5000’
Trend and Timing:
The temperature profile will be similar to the last few days. Highs in the upper 40’s with night temperatures dipping just below freezing. Freezing levels will begin to fall tomorrow in response to Wednesday’s frontal system.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base:0-5 SE
Ridge Top: 0-5 ESE
Trend and Timing:
There is not much in the wind department as light southeast flow continues.
Long-range: Change is anticipated by the middle of the week as the high pressure slowly degrades. Models have a cold front moving through on Wednesday. This should bring some snow to the mountains.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am =0 Snow equivalent =0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow =0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow =0
Trend and Timing:
No precipitation expected until Wednesday.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 30 High:48
Freezing level: 8000’ 5000’
Trend and Timing:
The temperature profile will be similar to the last few days. Highs in the upper 40’s with night temperatures dipping just below freezing. Freezing levels will begin to fall tomorrow in response to Wednesday’s frontal system.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base:0-5 SE
Ridge Top: 0-5 ESE
Trend and Timing:
There is not much in the wind department as light southeast flow continues.
January 20, 2013
January 19, 2013
Start Time Sunday---8am
Last week I was thinkin bout Haweii or Mexico. This week top of the ridge will do. Further warming at higher elevations over the next couple of days. This warm at higher elevations and colder in the valleys extends through Northern BC. Expect surface slides in the afternoons with potential for deeper slab instability in late afternoon through early evenings.
Next week bout Wednesday predicted to change.
Next week bout Wednesday predicted to change.
January 18, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 0930
Sunshine and warm temperatures will grace the Cascade Mountains again today. This pattern will continue through the weekend.
Long-range models are starting to agree on the high pressure breaking down on Tuesday. With some luck, new snow will arrive on Wednesday.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = 0 Snow equivalent = 0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = 0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0
Trend and Timing:
High and dry through Monday.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 32 High: 48
Freezing level: +8000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will continue to inch up through tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-10 W
Ridge Top: 5-15 W
Trend and Timing:
Gusty ridge top winds will continue today.
J.Meriwether
Long-range models are starting to agree on the high pressure breaking down on Tuesday. With some luck, new snow will arrive on Wednesday.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = 0 Snow equivalent = 0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = 0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0
Trend and Timing:
High and dry through Monday.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 32 High: 48
Freezing level: +8000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will continue to inch up through tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-10 W
Ridge Top: 5-15 W
Trend and Timing:
Gusty ridge top winds will continue today.
J.Meriwether
January 17, 2013
PNW Climate Tidbit
If precipitation does occur next Tuesday/Wednesday, this would end the January dry streak at 11 days. This would be the third longest January dry spell on record. The recorded was 15 days back in 1963.
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 0900
There will be more sunshine today with temperature a few degrees higher than yesterday. This pattern will continue through the weekend.
Long-range models show the high pressure breaking down sometime early next week. This should provide a change to a cooler and wetter pattern. In the mean time, enjoy the sun.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = 0 Snow equivalent = 0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow =0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0
Trend and Timing:
0
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 32 High: 48
Freezing level: +- 7000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will remain high through the weekend. Surface temperatures should fall just below freezing at night.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 NE shifting W
Ridge Top: 5-15 W
Trend and Timing:
Light NE flow will shift westerly overnight. Gusty westerly ridge top winds are expected during the day tomorrow.
Long-range models show the high pressure breaking down sometime early next week. This should provide a change to a cooler and wetter pattern. In the mean time, enjoy the sun.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = 0 Snow equivalent = 0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow =0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0
Trend and Timing:
0
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 32 High: 48
Freezing level: +- 7000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will remain high through the weekend. Surface temperatures should fall just below freezing at night.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 NE shifting W
Ridge Top: 5-15 W
Trend and Timing:
Light NE flow will shift westerly overnight. Gusty westerly ridge top winds are expected during the day tomorrow.
January 16, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 830
It seems a bit early for spring like weather. But that is what it will feel like today, unseasonable warm temperatures and sunshine. Telemetry is already showing close to 40f on the upper mountain.
Long-range. The atmosphere will remain stable, warm and dry through the upcoming holiday weekend. There are some early signs of the high pressure breaking down sometime early next week. If this occurs, we could see wetter and cooler weather mid to late next week.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = 0 Snow equivalent = 0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = 0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0
Trend and Timing:
0
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 34 High: 50
Freezing level: 4500’ 8000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels could climb well above 8000’ today and tomorrow. Warm temperatures will stick around right through the weekend.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 WNW
Ridge Top: 0-10 WNW
Trend and Timing:
Light north west winds will shift more westerly tomorrow.
J.Meriwether
Long-range. The atmosphere will remain stable, warm and dry through the upcoming holiday weekend. There are some early signs of the high pressure breaking down sometime early next week. If this occurs, we could see wetter and cooler weather mid to late next week.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = 0 Snow equivalent = 0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = 0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0
Trend and Timing:
0
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 34 High: 50
Freezing level: 4500’ 8000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels could climb well above 8000’ today and tomorrow. Warm temperatures will stick around right through the weekend.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 WNW
Ridge Top: 0-10 WNW
Trend and Timing:
Light north west winds will shift more westerly tomorrow.
J.Meriwether
January 15, 2013
Start Time Wednesday---8am
CAUTION!!!
On Monday........Skier Triggered wind slab off Rock Mt. Skier triggered an 8" wind slab that took him down close to a large glide crack between 6-7000' East Facing, ran on surface hoar and facets sitting on the crust.
On Monday........Skier Triggered wind slab off Rock Mt. Skier triggered an 8" wind slab that took him down close to a large glide crack between 6-7000' East Facing, ran on surface hoar and facets sitting on the crust.
January 14, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 0845
Some surface clouds this morning due to a weak system making its way through Northern Idaho. The high pressure pattern will continue to provide dry weather for the extended period.
Long-Range: As the center of the high pressure system drifts closer to the coast during the next few days, a warmer air mass will also force freezing levels up and relative humidity down. This should equate to a warm dry week.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = 0 Snow equivalent = 0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = 0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0
Trend and Timing:
0
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 24 High: 40
Freezing level: 2000’ 5000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will rise to 5000’ by noon tomorrow. Surface temperatures could reach 50f by Wednesday.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-10 WNW
Ridge Top: 5-15 WNW
Trend and Timing:
Winds will be westerly and gusty at times.
Long-Range: As the center of the high pressure system drifts closer to the coast during the next few days, a warmer air mass will also force freezing levels up and relative humidity down. This should equate to a warm dry week.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = 0 Snow equivalent = 0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = 0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0
Trend and Timing:
0
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 24 High: 40
Freezing level: 2000’ 5000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will rise to 5000’ by noon tomorrow. Surface temperatures could reach 50f by Wednesday.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-10 WNW
Ridge Top: 5-15 WNW
Trend and Timing:
Winds will be westerly and gusty at times.
January 13, 2013
January 12, 2013
Atmospheric Pressure.
Since we are settling into a dry period, let's delve into some atmospheric science.
High/low pressure.
High/low pressure.
Atmospheric pressure is the force exerted on a surface by the weight of air above. Atmospheric pressure is closely approximated by the hydrostatic pressure caused by the mass of air above the measurement point. Low-pressure areas have less atmospheric mass above their location, whereas high-pressure areas have more atmospheric mass above their location. Likewise, as elevation increases, there is less overlying atmospheric mass, so that atmospheric pressure decreases with increasing elevation. On average, a column of air one square centimeter in cross-section, measured from sea level to the top of the atmosphere, has a mass of about 1.03 kg and weight of about 10.1 N (2.28 lbf) (A column one square inch in cross-section would have a weight of about 14.7 lbs, or about 65.4 N). This is approximately the same as having a small car press down on you.
Today's 850mb MM5 model. Large High Pressure dominating most of the North Central Pacific. Notice the cold air driving air in from the north – hence our single digit low temps.
This is the same model but for this coming Tuesday. The center of the high is forecasted to drift east /northeast. This will push the cold air into the interior US and bring warm air over the PNW. This could produce spring like “January Thaw” with little to no precipitation.
January 11, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 0915
If there is not fresh powder, there might as well be amazing sunshine. This clear and cold trend will continue as high pressure continues to strengthen over the Pacific Northwest.
Long Range: This high pressure system will keep the region dry through most of next week. Warmer temperatures are expected early next week as the center of the high drifts east.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = 0 Snow equivalent = 0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow =0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0
Trend and Timing:
0
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 8 High:
Freezing level: +-500’
Trend and Timing:
Temperatures will remain very low for the next few days. Daytime temps should climb into the low 20’s with the help of the sun.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 NW
Ridge Top: 0-10 N
Trend and Timing:
Light northerly flow will swing E tomorrow.
Long Range: This high pressure system will keep the region dry through most of next week. Warmer temperatures are expected early next week as the center of the high drifts east.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = 0 Snow equivalent = 0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow =0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0
Trend and Timing:
0
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 8 High:
Freezing level: +-500’
Trend and Timing:
Temperatures will remain very low for the next few days. Daytime temps should climb into the low 20’s with the help of the sun.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 NW
Ridge Top: 0-10 N
Trend and Timing:
Light northerly flow will swing E tomorrow.
January 10, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast - Time: 0830
The atmosphere will stabilize and dry out today as high pressure builds off the western coast. Clear skies and low temperatures will be the main weather features for the next few days.
Long-term: Other than a few weak systems making it through from time to time, the next 3-6 days, will be dry and cold.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = >.10 Snow equivalent = trace
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .10
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0-1
Trend and Timing:
Just a few light snow showers left over this morning. No accumulation is expected for the next few days.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 10 High: 26
Freezing level: 2000’ Sea level
Trend and Timing:
Low freezing levels and clear skies could bring low temperatures to the single digits during the next few nights.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-10 NW
Ridge Top: 5-10 NNW
Trend and Timing:
Winds will swing NW to E over the next 24hrs.
Long-term: Other than a few weak systems making it through from time to time, the next 3-6 days, will be dry and cold.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = >.10 Snow equivalent = trace
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .10
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0-1
Trend and Timing:
Just a few light snow showers left over this morning. No accumulation is expected for the next few days.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 10 High: 26
Freezing level: 2000’ Sea level
Trend and Timing:
Low freezing levels and clear skies could bring low temperatures to the single digits during the next few nights.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-10 NW
Ridge Top: 5-10 NNW
Trend and Timing:
Winds will swing NW to E over the next 24hrs.
January 9, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 0900
Remnant snow will continue today, powered by convergence flow. Temperatures will also decline as cold northerly air flows into the PNW. After today, no significant snowfall is anticipated for the remainder of the week.
Long-term: A large high pressure system, centered well off the western coast, will allow cold northerly air and a few weak systems with clear periods to affect the region through the upcoming weekend.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .5 Snow equivalent = 4-6
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .5+ <.75
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 5-7
Trend and Timing:
Convergence flow will allow the snow to continue through the day. Snow will taper off tonight with light snow showers and clearing tomorrow.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 26 High: 20
Freezing level: 4000’ 1000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will fall sharply during the next 24hrs as cold air flows in from the northwest.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-15 W
Ridge Top: 10-15 W gusty
Trend and Timing:
Gusty westerlies will continue today. Winds will shift NW tomorrow.
Long-term: A large high pressure system, centered well off the western coast, will allow cold northerly air and a few weak systems with clear periods to affect the region through the upcoming weekend.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .5 Snow equivalent = 4-6
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .5+ <.75
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 5-7
Trend and Timing:
Convergence flow will allow the snow to continue through the day. Snow will taper off tonight with light snow showers and clearing tomorrow.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 26 High: 20
Freezing level: 4000’ 1000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will fall sharply during the next 24hrs as cold air flows in from the northwest.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-15 W
Ridge Top: 10-15 W gusty
Trend and Timing:
Gusty westerlies will continue today. Winds will shift NW tomorrow.
January 8, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 1000
The next warm front will lift up from the southwest today. Once the front passes sometime this afternoon, the freezing levels will quickly rise to + 5000’ and the snow will change to rain. Heavy rain can be anticipated through the night.
Long-term: Tomorrow will be snowy with falling temperatures. High pressure, building off of the Oregon coast, will produce a drying trend for the Cascade Mountains starting Thursday. Dry and cool weather will likely continue through the weekend and well into next week.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = +1 Snow equivalent = 8-12 prior to rain
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = 1.5
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = ? temperature dependent.
Trend and Timing:
It could be possible to get close to a foot of new snow on the upper mountain before it changes to rain later today. Heavy rain will be likely tonight with snow returning during the early morning hours. Depending on when the rain changes back to snow an additional 3-6” by noon tomorrow will be possible.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 26 High: 38
Freezing level: 3500’ 5500’ 2000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will increase with the passing of the front sometime after 2pm today. Temperatures will gradually fall through the night with freezing levels dropping back below 4000’ after 4am tomorrow morning. Temperatures will continue to decline through the day tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 E shifting SW
Ridge Top: 0-10 E shifting SW
Trend and Timing:
Winds will shift SW with the passing of the front this afternoon. Gusty SW winds should be anticipated along the ridge tops. The base area should be fairly protected from any strong winds. NW flow develops tomorrow.
Long-term: Tomorrow will be snowy with falling temperatures. High pressure, building off of the Oregon coast, will produce a drying trend for the Cascade Mountains starting Thursday. Dry and cool weather will likely continue through the weekend and well into next week.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = +1 Snow equivalent = 8-12 prior to rain
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = 1.5
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = ? temperature dependent.
Trend and Timing:
It could be possible to get close to a foot of new snow on the upper mountain before it changes to rain later today. Heavy rain will be likely tonight with snow returning during the early morning hours. Depending on when the rain changes back to snow an additional 3-6” by noon tomorrow will be possible.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 26 High: 38
Freezing level: 3500’ 5500’ 2000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will increase with the passing of the front sometime after 2pm today. Temperatures will gradually fall through the night with freezing levels dropping back below 4000’ after 4am tomorrow morning. Temperatures will continue to decline through the day tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 E shifting SW
Ridge Top: 0-10 E shifting SW
Trend and Timing:
Winds will shift SW with the passing of the front this afternoon. Gusty SW winds should be anticipated along the ridge tops. The base area should be fairly protected from any strong winds. NW flow develops tomorrow.
What's Next?
After the battle with the rain yesterday and again today there should be enough snow tomorrow to adhere to the wet surface. The models have a large high pressure system building off of the coast starting on Thursday. This will create dry and cold weather in PNW for the weekend and likely through most of next week. Watch for cold temperatures that flow in from the north due the center of the high parked well off shore. Be safe out there.
Model for this coming Sunday:
January 7, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 1100
This morning’s warm front is now well east of the Cascade Mountains. The precipitation will gradually taper off today, but there is still a high wind event expected to hit the mountains. The next front expected to enter the scene early tomorrow morning will have a remarkably similar effect as today; moderate to heavy snow changing to rain.
Long-term: Cool northwest flow arrives on Wednesday dropping freezing levels and bringing more snow. High pressure building off the coast on Thursday will provide a cool and dry finish to the week.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = + .25 Snow equivalent = 2-4
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = + .75
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 6-10
Trend and Timing:
The precipitation will diminish to light showers today with a rather dry night. The next warm front is expected to hit the mountain early tomorrow morning with moderate to heavy snow changing to rain by the afternoon. Tomorrow afternoon/evenings rain event could be heavy at times.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 28 High: 36
Freezing level: 5000’ 3500’ 5000’
Trend and Timing:
Temperatures will drop a few degrees below freezing tonight. Freezing levels will spike up to 5000’ around noon tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 10-20 W
Ridge Top: 15-30 W gusty to +50mpg possible.
Trend and Timing:
The wind should begin to intensify today as gradients increase across the mountain range. Winds will begin to mellow through the night.
Long-term: Cool northwest flow arrives on Wednesday dropping freezing levels and bringing more snow. High pressure building off the coast on Thursday will provide a cool and dry finish to the week.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = + .25 Snow equivalent = 2-4
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = + .75
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 6-10
Trend and Timing:
The precipitation will diminish to light showers today with a rather dry night. The next warm front is expected to hit the mountain early tomorrow morning with moderate to heavy snow changing to rain by the afternoon. Tomorrow afternoon/evenings rain event could be heavy at times.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 28 High: 36
Freezing level: 5000’ 3500’ 5000’
Trend and Timing:
Temperatures will drop a few degrees below freezing tonight. Freezing levels will spike up to 5000’ around noon tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 10-20 W
Ridge Top: 15-30 W gusty to +50mpg possible.
Trend and Timing:
The wind should begin to intensify today as gradients increase across the mountain range. Winds will begin to mellow through the night.
January 6, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 0915
Two distinct warm fronts will generate fluctuating freezing levels and heavy precipitation in the mountains for the next few days. Snow, rain, freezing rain? That is the crucial question. Winds will also be a significant factor. See trends and timing below.
Long-term: The following warm front arrives Tuesday morning with a similar effect – more precipitation with rising freezing levels. Cool NW flow will keep snow in the picture for the second half of the week. The weekend appears to be dry and cold as high pressure builds off the western coast.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am =.5-.75 Snow equivalent = 6-10
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = 1-1.5
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 10-15 above 4500’
Trend and Timing:
Snow will steadily increase today as the front approaches. Heavy snow tonight with a possible rain event below 4500’ should be anticipated. The precipitation will taper off tomorrow with another similar event on Tuesday.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 24 High: 34
Freezing level: 2500’ 4500’
Trend and Timing:
Surface temperatures should reach 32f sometime around midnight and then inch up a few degrees as the morning progresses. Freezing levels will then fall back below Pass level by tomorrow afternoon.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-10 W shifting E then back W
Ridge Top: 10-20+ W gust above 50mph possible.
Trend and Timing:
High winds will also be a factor with this front. We can expect gust of +50mph to hit the upper mountain during operations tomorrow.
Long-term: The following warm front arrives Tuesday morning with a similar effect – more precipitation with rising freezing levels. Cool NW flow will keep snow in the picture for the second half of the week. The weekend appears to be dry and cold as high pressure builds off the western coast.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am =.5-.75 Snow equivalent = 6-10
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = 1-1.5
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 10-15 above 4500’
Trend and Timing:
Snow will steadily increase today as the front approaches. Heavy snow tonight with a possible rain event below 4500’ should be anticipated. The precipitation will taper off tomorrow with another similar event on Tuesday.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 24 High: 34
Freezing level: 2500’ 4500’
Trend and Timing:
Surface temperatures should reach 32f sometime around midnight and then inch up a few degrees as the morning progresses. Freezing levels will then fall back below Pass level by tomorrow afternoon.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-10 W shifting E then back W
Ridge Top: 10-20+ W gust above 50mph possible.
Trend and Timing:
High winds will also be a factor with this front. We can expect gust of +50mph to hit the upper mountain during operations tomorrow.
January 5, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast - Time: 0830
A weakening cold front approaching the coast this morning will bring light snow to the resort tonight and tomorrow. The early clouds associated with this front have already reached the mountains. Snow should arrive sometime this afternoon.
Long-term: A strong warm front arrives on Monday. This will bring heavy precipitation and rising freezing levels for the start of the week. The temperatures will be on the cusp with easterly flow doing its best to keep the precipitation white. However, a little rain could help reduce the growing avalanche hazards stirring in the backcountry.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .25 Snow equivalent = 2-4
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .25-.5
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 3-5
Trend and Timing:
Light snow will fall through the night. There is a opportunity for a short live convergence event during the early morning hours. Snow will decrease to showers by mid morning.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 20 High: 24
Freezing level: +- 2500’
Trend and Timing:
Mid 20’s temperatures should remain steady through noon tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 E
Ridge Top: 0-5 E shifting W strengthening
Trend and Timing:
Winds are expected to shift westerly and strengthen tomorrow morning. Watch for gusty westerly winds along the ridge tops in the am.
Long-term: A strong warm front arrives on Monday. This will bring heavy precipitation and rising freezing levels for the start of the week. The temperatures will be on the cusp with easterly flow doing its best to keep the precipitation white. However, a little rain could help reduce the growing avalanche hazards stirring in the backcountry.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .25 Snow equivalent = 2-4
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .25-.5
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 3-5
Trend and Timing:
Light snow will fall through the night. There is a opportunity for a short live convergence event during the early morning hours. Snow will decrease to showers by mid morning.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 20 High: 24
Freezing level: +- 2500’
Trend and Timing:
Mid 20’s temperatures should remain steady through noon tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 E
Ridge Top: 0-5 E shifting W strengthening
Trend and Timing:
Winds are expected to shift westerly and strengthen tomorrow morning. Watch for gusty westerly winds along the ridge tops in the am.
January 4, 2013
Temperatures Inversions.
Dan said there has been some discussion on temperature inversions as of late. Hum I wonder why? He asked if I would post some info on inversions on the blog. I am a sucker for good weather chatter.
If you have been in the Cascade Mountains over the past few days, you have no doubt noticed the extremely cold temperature east of the crest and the warm temperatures to the west. Temperature Inversions are a very common winter weather phenomenon along the entire western mountains range.
Notice the single digits temps to the east and 40-50degrees over Seattle.
And then the lack of pressure gradients and wind. Inversion....
During the winter when a ridge of high pressure moves over the land the wind is light and the skies are clear. At night with the clear skies, the temperatures drop rapidly and cool air, which is heavier than warm air, pools on the valley floor. Often this process results in the formation of fog as temperatures drop to the dew point. This situation where the cooler air is near the surface of the ground and temperatures warm as you travel up in elevation is called an inversion. With the cold air stuck in this bowl of a valley and no wind to mix and warm the air, the cold air sits until the sun can heat up the ground enough to break the inversion. Fog makes it even harder to break up this inversion because the fog reflects the sun’s attempts to warm the ground, keeping the valley cool while the higher elevations are seeing sunshine and sitting a good 20+ degrees warmer than the valley. The best way to break this inversion problem is to get some storms to move through the area, which is something, that is currently underway.
If you have been in the Cascade Mountains over the past few days, you have no doubt noticed the extremely cold temperature east of the crest and the warm temperatures to the west. Temperature Inversions are a very common winter weather phenomenon along the entire western mountains range.
Notice the single digits temps to the east and 40-50degrees over Seattle.
And then the lack of pressure gradients and wind. Inversion....
During the winter when a ridge of high pressure moves over the land the wind is light and the skies are clear. At night with the clear skies, the temperatures drop rapidly and cool air, which is heavier than warm air, pools on the valley floor. Often this process results in the formation of fog as temperatures drop to the dew point. This situation where the cooler air is near the surface of the ground and temperatures warm as you travel up in elevation is called an inversion. With the cold air stuck in this bowl of a valley and no wind to mix and warm the air, the cold air sits until the sun can heat up the ground enough to break the inversion. Fog makes it even harder to break up this inversion because the fog reflects the sun’s attempts to warm the ground, keeping the valley cool while the higher elevations are seeing sunshine and sitting a good 20+ degrees warmer than the valley. The best way to break this inversion problem is to get some storms to move through the area, which is something, that is currently underway.
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 1130
Light snow with partial clearing will be the main weather event today and tonight. The snow returns tomorrow afternoon as another front enters the scene. The snow will continue on Sunday.
Long-term: Things get interesting on Monday as a strong warm front brings moderate to heavy precipitation and rising freezing levels. Details are sketchy at this point, but heavy snow with a rain event is possible Monday night. We will have to watch this closely as the detail unfold.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .10 Snow equivalent = trace
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .10
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0-2
Trend and Timing:
The rest of the day and tonight will be fairly dry with partial clearing.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 24 High: 32
Freezing level: 4000’ 3000
Trend and Timing:
The temperatures on the higher ridges have already reached 32degrees or higher. The cool air in the eastern basin should not allow temperatures to make it much higher. Surface temperature should remain at or below freezing through tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 E
Ridge Top: 0-10 E
Trend and Timing:
East flow will re-establish today and continue through early Sunday morning.
Long-term: Things get interesting on Monday as a strong warm front brings moderate to heavy precipitation and rising freezing levels. Details are sketchy at this point, but heavy snow with a rain event is possible Monday night. We will have to watch this closely as the detail unfold.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = .10 Snow equivalent = trace
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .10
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0-2
Trend and Timing:
The rest of the day and tonight will be fairly dry with partial clearing.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 24 High: 32
Freezing level: 4000’ 3000
Trend and Timing:
The temperatures on the higher ridges have already reached 32degrees or higher. The cool air in the eastern basin should not allow temperatures to make it much higher. Surface temperature should remain at or below freezing through tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 E
Ridge Top: 0-10 E
Trend and Timing:
East flow will re-establish today and continue through early Sunday morning.
January 3, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast - Time: 1000
And yet another frigid morning with lows in the single digits. The temperature models are sure underestimating the low temperatures. The center of the high pressure has moved east into western Montana. This will make way for a frontal system to bring snow to the mountains tonight. Snow with warmer temperatures can be anticipated tonight and tomorrow.
Long-term: It is looking good for another active weather pattern to develop over the weekend and lasting through most of next week. Yes, more snow on the way.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = + .25 Snow equivalent = 2-5
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .5
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 4-8
Trend and Timing:
Snow will begin after 4pm today and strengthen overnight. Snow will quickly taper off tomorrow as another high pressure ridge develops.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 12 High: 32
Freezing level: 2000’ 4000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will rise to near Pass level sometime early tomorrow morning. Surface temperatures will remain in the upper 20’s through most of the weekend.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-10 E shifting W
Ridge Top: 5-15 E shifting W
Trend and Timing:
Westerly flow is expected to override the east flow sometime during the early morning hours. Gusty ridge top westerly winds will accompany the front tomorrow morning. East flow will re-establish and strengthen tomorrow night.
Long-term: It is looking good for another active weather pattern to develop over the weekend and lasting through most of next week. Yes, more snow on the way.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = + .25 Snow equivalent = 2-5
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = .5
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 4-8
Trend and Timing:
Snow will begin after 4pm today and strengthen overnight. Snow will quickly taper off tomorrow as another high pressure ridge develops.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 12 High: 32
Freezing level: 2000’ 4000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will rise to near Pass level sometime early tomorrow morning. Surface temperatures will remain in the upper 20’s through most of the weekend.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 5-10 E shifting W
Ridge Top: 5-15 E shifting W
Trend and Timing:
Westerly flow is expected to override the east flow sometime during the early morning hours. Gusty ridge top westerly winds will accompany the front tomorrow morning. East flow will re-establish and strengthen tomorrow night.
January 2, 2013
Mountain Weather Forecast-Time: 1000
Brr, the mercury hit the single digits this morning of 7 degrees. The crisp cold air east of the crest will eventually give way to the warmer SW flow today. Dry conditions will continue today with steadily rising freezing levels.
Long-term: The high pressure that has dominated the weather patterns will gradually wither and drift east during the next few days. This will provide the clearance for a system to make through tomorrow night and or early Friday morning. High pressure re-establishes itself on Friday and Saturday for a few more days of dry but warmer weather. A pattern change to warmer westerly flow early next week, is showing up on the long range models.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = 0 Snow equivalent = 0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = 0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0
Trend and Timing:
Some extremely light snow is possible with these surface clouds, but the general air mass will stay dry through tomorrow. Snow will develop late tomorrow night.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 18 High: 24
Freezing level: 1000’ 3000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will continue to rise west of the Pass today. Cool east flow will keep surface temperatures will below freezing through tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-10 E
Ridge Top: 5-10 ESE
Trend and Timing:
East flow will continue through the night.
Long-term: The high pressure that has dominated the weather patterns will gradually wither and drift east during the next few days. This will provide the clearance for a system to make through tomorrow night and or early Friday morning. High pressure re-establishes itself on Friday and Saturday for a few more days of dry but warmer weather. A pattern change to warmer westerly flow early next week, is showing up on the long range models.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = 0 Snow equivalent = 0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = 0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0
Trend and Timing:
Some extremely light snow is possible with these surface clouds, but the general air mass will stay dry through tomorrow. Snow will develop late tomorrow night.
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 18 High: 24
Freezing level: 1000’ 3000’
Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will continue to rise west of the Pass today. Cool east flow will keep surface temperatures will below freezing through tomorrow.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-10 E
Ridge Top: 5-10 ESE
Trend and Timing:
East flow will continue through the night.
January 1, 2013
Start Time Wednesday---8am
Greetings Patrol, NPACers and NWACers,
What a December it’s been at 208” of snowfall. Record here at Stevens…228” 96/97.
The past 3 weeks we are finding a Moderate Shear Quality of 1 between 90 & 120cms, depending on aspect, on a thin layer of Surface Hoar remnants and Facets. December has been consistent with snowfall and cold temperatures with one 7 hour wind event and no observed avalanche activity on this layer outside the ski area boundary………………YET.
This shear layer needs some sort of change to react. Over the next several days predicted warming with little to no precipitation. Supposed to stay relatively cold in the passes and east slopes. This means inversions. 7-10,000 foot freezing levels through the weekend.
I remember several avalanche events on blue sky days 1-3 weeks after a storm where simultaneous skier/boarder triggered avalanches occurred. Even though this weaker shear layer is not as prevalent as in the past the ingredients are stacking up…..inversions, warming up high, blue sky and a big weekend.
Several days ago on my way home from work I never saw so many skiers heading up Henry Creek, maybe several hundred, parking and walking up the highway up to a mile away.
January weather predictions are for moderate to heavy precipitation on the west slope and light to occasionally moderate on the east slope. This means inversions, buried crusts, surface hoar and facets throughout the month.
Caution over the next week above 4700’ with the warming.
Jon
Mountain Weather Forecast -Time: 0915
Hello sunshine, not a bad way to start the New Year.
The morning sun is doing a nice job of burning off that pesky inversion layer hovering at the surface. Dry conditions will remain as high pressure dominates the weather pattern over the region.
Long-term: The blocking wall of high pressure will prevent any significant systems from entering the Cascade Mountains for the rest of the week. Warmer air filtering in from the west will also provide an overall warming trend.
There is a hint of some change beginning this weekend with models breaking down the high pressure. It is a bit far out to have much faith on what will happen, so stay tuned as those details unfold.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = 0 Snow equivalent = 0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = 0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0
Trend and Timing:
Dry and clear
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 20 High: 30
Freezing level: 3500’
Trend and Timing:
Warm air invading from the west strengthened the temperature inversion that developed yesterday. This convection will trap cold air east of the crest while freezing levels climb well above 4000’ to the west. South facing slopes could see the surface temperatures rise to near or above freezing due to good solar influence.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 E
Ridge Top: 0-10 E
Trend and Timing:
East winds will remain light for the next few days.
The morning sun is doing a nice job of burning off that pesky inversion layer hovering at the surface. Dry conditions will remain as high pressure dominates the weather pattern over the region.
Long-term: The blocking wall of high pressure will prevent any significant systems from entering the Cascade Mountains for the rest of the week. Warmer air filtering in from the west will also provide an overall warming trend.
There is a hint of some change beginning this weekend with models breaking down the high pressure. It is a bit far out to have much faith on what will happen, so stay tuned as those details unfold.
24hr Accumulative Precipitation Totals Starting at Noon Today:
Water by 4am = 0 Snow equivalent = 0
Total inches of water by noon tomorrow = 0
Total inches of snow by noon tomorrow = 0
Trend and Timing:
Dry and clear
24hr Base Area Temperatures (F) Starting at Noon Today:
Low: 20 High: 30
Freezing level: 3500’
Trend and Timing:
Warm air invading from the west strengthened the temperature inversion that developed yesterday. This convection will trap cold air east of the crest while freezing levels climb well above 4000’ to the west. South facing slopes could see the surface temperatures rise to near or above freezing due to good solar influence.
24hr Winds Speed (mph)/Direction Starting at Noon Today:
Base: 0-5 E
Ridge Top: 0-10 E
Trend and Timing:
East winds will remain light for the next few days.
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