East Slopes South

The danger has dropped as freezing levels begin to lower, but the mountains will continue to shed their winter coat with daytime warming and strong April sun. Continue to use caution in steep terrain and consider moving to a shadier slope once the snow feels wet and punchy. Plan for an adventure to reach continuous snow and keep other spring hazards in mind, such as firm morning travel.

A much-needed cool down is heading for the region, which should start to limit wet avalanche activity on Tuesday. While temperatures will feel cooler than on past days, freezing levels will remain elevated enough to expect a gradual downtrend in wet-snow instabilities through the week. It may remain possible to push small wet avalanches on steep features that feel wet and punchy. Fortunately, you can help reduce your exposure by starting early and ending your day early so you can avoid being out in the mountains as they continue their spring shed. With spring shed in mind, also use caution below sagging cornices or other chunks of snow on cliffs that could unglue without warning. 

Public observations have been limited due to low snow and difficult access. An NWAC Forecaster around Bumping Lake on Friday reported very patchy snow coverage and rugged travel to 5200 ft (observation here). In the neighboring West South, there have been numerous shed-style observations during the recent warm days. 

Large temperature fluctuations and minimal new snow have made mountain travel challenging. Expect dry approaches, high creeks, and some glacier lilies at lower elevations and firm, slide-for-life surfaces in middle and upper elevation terrain, particularly during the morning hours. Crampons, an ice axe, and experience moving through hard snow may be necessary on steeper slopes before the sun works its magic. 

The prolonged warm spell in March decimated the already struggling East South snowpack. Below 5,000 ft, snow coverage is too limited for avalanche danger at this time—so we’re issuing a No Rating for lower elevations. You can still find rideable snow at middle and upper elevations on most aspects. 

Are you heading out into the mountains?  Let us know what you see by submitting an observation here or on the AvyApp