A variety of weather factors have rapidly increased the avalanche danger and decreased stability. The avalanche problem will change as you move higher in elevation, beginning with wet loose and transitioning to wind slabs at upper elevations. Conservative decision-making and route finding are prudent at this time, as the likelihood of triggering a large avalanche is likely.
Winds in the Wallowas and Elkhorns have been moderate to strong, primarily from the SW for the past 24 hours and will continue today. Touchy wind slabs will be found near and above treeline on lee aspects, primarily N-E facing slopes. These freshly developed slabs will be sensitive to the weight of a skier or rider and should be avoided.
With high snow levels, and warm temperatures overnight expect to see pinwheels, rollerballs and other signs of the surface snowpack absorbing moisture. Traveling in rain-saturated snow on slopes greater than 30 degrees is not recommended. You could likely trigger a wet loose avalanche that could push you into a terrain trap or other consequential feature.
High snow levels accompanied by rain on the snow below 8,000' has increased the avalanche danger and turned our powder dreams from this past weekend into a much different reality this morning. Triggering a wind slab or wet loose avalanche today is likely, and traveling in the mountains today will not be very enjoyable. It's best to wait until the weather cools down and the freezing level returns to a more seasonable norm. Wednesday appears to be another warm day in the mountains, as we make the transition to more seasonable temperatures and freezing levels on Thursday.
