Wet surface snow will become unstable as today’s temperatures rise. Adjust your exposure to steep terrain as the day progresses and surface conditions change. Once snow deeper than the top several inches becomes wet and mushy, it’s time to move to lower angle terrain or firmer slopes.
The likelihood for human triggered wet loose instabilities increases throughout the day, especially on lower elevation slopes with trees and rocks that collect heat and transfer it to the snowpack. Today's increased winds will slow - but not prevent - the softening of surface snow on wind exposed slopes.
This week's record high temperatures have caused significant snowmelt and dynamic access conditions. CalTrans has begun plowing 108 and Virginia Lakes Rd, though both remain closed to wheeled vehicles. Dirt roads have a mix of dry and muddy conditions before reaching snow, and many gates are still locked. This is the last weekend for motorized use in the Bridgeport Winter Recreation Area.
