Watch for warming-related problems as the day heats up. Triggering a buried weak layer remains possible.
A weak layer may exist around 30 to 70 cm deep, which was likely the culprit of some large natural avalanches on the weekend. Use caution and assess for this layer, particularly in high consequence terrain.
Naturally triggered wet loose avalanches may occur in steep terrain during the heat of the day. Cornices also weaken and could release naturally. These could step down to deeper layers, resulting in large avalanches.
We haven't received reports of avalanche activity for the past few days. The latest activity was the observation of some large slab avalanches out of steep alpine terrain on Saturday. These avalanches likely failed on the weak layer described in the Snowpack Summary.
Looking forward, it remains possible for humans to trigger this weak layer. Warming-related problems such as wet loose, wet slab, and cornice releases will also increase with daytime warming.
Sun-exposed slopes have a surface melt-freeze crust that turns moist during daytime warming. Shaded alpine slopes have a soft, settled snow surface.
A layer of surface hoar or facets associated with a crust may be found about 30 to 70 cm deep.
Cornices are large and looming at this time of year.
Wednesday Night
Clear skies. 10 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -1 °C.
Thursday
Sunny. 10 km/h north ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 3 °C. Freezing level 1700 m.
Friday
Sunny. 10 to 20 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 2 °C. Freezing level 1600 m.
Saturday
Mix of sun and cloud. 10 km/h southeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 2 °C. Freezing level 1500 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
