Chinook
A warm, dry wind descending the lee side of the Rockies that can rapidly warm the snowpack and destabilise it.
A warm, dry wind descending the lee side of the Rockies that can rapidly warm the snowpack and destabilise it. It is a term used in snow conditions and types.
Snow conditions are one of the most important factors in the quality of a ski day. Chinook is a condition that experienced skiers learn to recognise and adapt to. Conditions can change rapidly with temperature, wind and time of day. Checking the daily snow report and speaking to ski patrol gives you the best information before heading out.
Recognising chinook is an important part of reading conditions. Snow quality changes throughout the day and season, affecting both grip and speed.
Related terms include Föhn and Wet slab.