East Slopes South

Challenging travel on firm and icy surfaces may be a greater hazard than avalanches. Avalanches are unlikely, but as the sun warms southern slopes, you may be able to trigger small wet avalanches in very steep, rocky terrain by the afternoon.  

Friday will be slightly warmer than Thursday, especially at upper elevations. Valleys at lower elevations will likely linger under fog with cold air pooled under a temperature inversion. The inversion may weaken but might not mix entirely with warmer air above by the late afternoon. Expect icy, slippery crusts on the surface in the morning. Icy surfaces make slips and falls dangerous, possibly resulting in uncontrollable slides. Make sure you prepare for these challenging travel conditions. Snow surfaces in the sun will warm and soften during the day and pleasant skiing and riding conditions can be found on southern aspects. While avalanches are unlikely, you may be able to trigger wet loose avalanches in isolated areas of very steep terrain on south aspects. Take note of how thick and supportable the crust is throughout the day. If you're sinking past your ankle or the sled bogs down in deep wet snow, you may be able to trigger a wet loose avalanche. While any slides should remain small and isolated, don't let one catch you by surprise and push you into a terrain trap. Even a small avalanche can hurt you if it carries you over a cliff or buries you deeply in a gully. Don't linger underneath any remaining cornices. These may break off, and the large blocks tumbling down slopes are hazardous.

Unfortunately, the recent warm temperatures and sun also caused significant loss in snow cover. Many low elevation slopes have melted out, while SNOTELs throughout the zone report total snow heights of 2-5ft between 4500-6000ft. We may be in for a much-needed refresh and return to winter over the weekend. Now is an excellent time to track the surface conditions and note any weak snow or surface hoar on the crust that could become a weak layer buried under the new snow. If you get out, send us an observation of the snow surfaces you find.