Forecast outflow winds will continue to build wind slabs at higher elevations, while buried weak layers continue to demand careful terrain selection.
Expect to find wind slabs at higher elevation where the surface snow is not capped by a melt-freeze crust. Wind slabs may continue to form throughout the alpine with the forecast outflow winds.
A number of buried weak layers remain possible to trigger. These layers appear to be most problematic in upper treeline/lower alpine elevations, in shallow, rocky start zones.
No new avalanche activity has been reported since the arrival of the cold, dry weather.
If you are out in the backcountry please consider filling out a Mountain Information Network report.
In the alpine, recent strong winds and new snow have formed wind slabs in lee terrain features. While at lower elevations a widespread melt-freeze crust exists on the surface up to roughly 1900 m. This crust continues to gain strength and become supportive to travel with cold temperatures. At higher elevations, above 1900 m, surface snow has been redistributed by recent winds.
In the mid and lower snowpack, a number of buried weak layers remain a primary concern. These layers are most concerning in shallow, rocky areas at treeline and alpine elevations.
Friday night
Mostly clear, no precipitation. Treeline temperatures -5 to -10 C. Moderate outflow winds in the alpine, while much stronger through valleys and inlets.
Saturday
Sunny, with no precipitation. Treeline temperatures -10 to -15 C. Light to moderate alpine winds, with strong to extreme outflow winds in valleys and inlets.
Sunday
Sunny, with no precipitation. Treeline temperatures 0 to -10 C. Light to moderate alpine winds, with strong to extreme outflow winds in valleys and inlets.
Monday
Sunny, with no precipitation. Treeline temperatures 0 to -5 C. Light northwest alpine winds.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
