Early season hazards are the main concern in this shallow snowpack. It's a great time to brush up on your rescue skills, check your gear, and do some snow dances!
Small wind slabs may be found at higher elevations, primarily in north and east facing terrain (although wind direction has varied throughout the region).
A few natural size two wind slab avalanches have been reported in the last week at higher elevations.
Observations are limited this time of year. Please consider filling out a MIN report if you do head out in the backcountry! 🙏
Expect early-season conditions with a shallower-than-average snowpack. At treeline depths are between 60-100 cm. Below treeline, snowpack depths taper off quickly.
Surface conditions are variable. Surface hoar growth has been reported in many areas. A sun crust can be found on steep south and west-facing slopes, and wind effect exists on exposed terrain at treeline and above.
A crust with facets below exists 10 to 20 cm above the ground.
Monday night
Cloudy with clear periods, no precipitation, southwest alpine wind 5 to 15 km/h, treeline temperature -6 °C.
Tuesday
Valley cloud in many areas, clear above, no precipitation, west alpine wind 5 to 15 km/h, treeline temperature -4 °C with an alpine temperature inversion.
Wednesday
Sunny with cloudy periods, no precipitation, northwest alpine wind 5 to 15 km/h, treeline temperature -6 °C.
Thursday
A mix of sun and cloud, no precipitation, south alpine wind 5 to 10 km/h, treeline temperature -7 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
