Dogtooth

Large, persistent slab avalanches continue to be reported daily - many in steep treed areas.

Moderate

• We have higher uncertainty about treeline conditions due to persistent slabs.

On Sunday, numerous natural, explosive, and rider-triggered avalanches were reported, including a size 2.5 avalanche triggered from 3 m away.

On Saturday, a widespread avalanche cycle to size 3 was reported, avalanches failed both within the recent storm snow and on persistent weak layers. Many avalanches were in steep open features; however, this MIN from Silent Pass reports a size 2.5 persistent slab avalanche below treeline.

Strong winds have pressed surfaces and left slabs in lee terrain. Solar slopes have a crust and may become moist with daytime heating.

A weak layer of surface hoar or crust is buried 40 to 60 cm, with deeper areas reporting this layer up to 100 cm deep. Recent persistent slab avalanches have failed on this layer, many triggered in sheltered openings at treeline and below.

The mid and lower snowpack are well settled. In some areas, large facets and depth hoar are present at the bottom of the snowpack.

Monday Night

Clear skies. 50 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C. Freezing level 1800 m.

Tuesday

Mix of sun and clouds. 2 cm of snow. 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C. Freezing level 1700 m.

Wednesday

Mostly cloudy. 5 to 10 cm of snow. 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C.

Thursday

Mix of sun and clouds. 1 to 3 cm of snow. 30 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• In times of uncertainty, conservative terrain choices are our best defense.
• Watch for signs of instability like whumpfing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks, or recent avalanches.
• Be aware of the potential for remote triggering and large avalanches due to buried surface hoar.
• Limit exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes, especially when the solar radiation is strong.