DEC Contact: David Winchell (518) 897-1200 February 17, 2017
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DEC ADVISES BACKCOUNTRY RECREATIONALISTS OF AVALANCHE RISK IN ADIRONDACK HIGH PEAKS REGION |
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The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is advising backcountry downhill skiers, hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts that fluctuating temperatures of late have increased the risk of an avalanche in the High Peaks Region of the Adirondacks, Commissioner Basil Seggos advised today. “Recent storms have resulted in a significant amount of new snow, and we expect an increase in temperatures and the number of recreational enthusiasts visiting the High Peaks to snowshoe, cross-country ski, and enjoy the pristine surroundings,” Commissioner Seggos said. “We are cautioning anyone planning to traverse backcountry slides and other avalanche-prone terrain in the High Peaks to be extremely careful and be prepared for avalanche conditions.” The Adirondacks have received approximately 18 to 26 inches of new snow in the past two weeks on top of the previous snowpack, which has distinct layers formed by rain, melting and fluctuating temperatures recently. Due to high winds, snows depths are deeper on leeward slopes or areas of snow deposits, such as gullies. Snow depths in the mountains range from 32 to 46 inches. Lower snow layers may be reactive to the added stresses of the recent snows creating conditions conducive to avalanches. Avalanches can occur in any situation where snow, slope and weather conditions combine to create the proper conditions. While the majority of steep open terrain is found in the High Peaks, avalanche prone terrain is also found on mountains throughout other areas in the Adirondacks, including Snow Mountain in Hamilton County. Avalanche danger increases during and immediately after major snowfalls and during thaws. The forecast for this weekend is for mostly sunny and partly sunny skies with temperatures climbing into the 40s. While this weather is appealing to outdoor enthusiasts it also increases the danger of avalanches. The majority of avalanches in the United States occur in the western mountains. However, avalanches do occur in New York and can have dire consequences. One person was killed and five people were injured in an avalanche while they were skiing a slide on Wright Peak in the High Peaks region in February 2000. DEC reminds back country winter recreationists to take the following precautions when traveling in avalanche prone terrain:
Additional information on avalanche danger, preparedness and safety precautions is available on DEC’s web site (http://www.dec.ny.gov/public/950.html). |
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