Be mindful of solar inputs on Friday and Saturday. There is potential for small loose wet avalanches out of steeper southerly terrain.
Two persistent layers from the end of December and mid January exist in the mid-pack down roughly 30 and 50 cm. There has been little activity on these layers recently, however stability tests still show moderate "sudden" results on these interfaces.
The weak base is still present in most areas at tree-line and above. Forecasters have not seen a significant avalanche on this layer for some time, however the weak structure of this layer still warrants a cautious approach.
15-25cm of recent storm snow overlays the Feb 3 temperature crust which is evident on all aspects except north above 2500m. A thin sun-crust exists on the surface on steep south aspects. Moderate shears persist in the midpack down roughly 30 and 50cm on several persistent interfaces. Facets and depth hoar make up the basal layers of the snowpack in most locations.
A weak upper ridge moves into the forecast area on Friday afternoon resulting in mainly sunny skies, light winds and minimal to no snow through Saturday. Freezing levels will be near valley bottom.
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