The avalanche danger is dropping, but keep in mind the potential for some unstable slabs in steep alpine terrain.
Hard wind slabs are widespread but difficult to trigger. However, be aware of the potential for wide propagations if triggered.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT: Partly cloudy, light northwest wind, treeline temperatures drop to -12 C.
THURSDAY: Mix of sun and cloud with morning fog, light northwest wind, treeline temperatures around -10 C.
FRIDAY: Sunny, light wind, treeline temperatures around -12 C.
SATURDAY: Mix of sun and cloud, light west wind, treeline temperature around -12 C.
No recent avalanches have been reported, although there is still lots of visible evidence from the widespread avalanche cycle that occurred on Jan 13 (storm and deep persistent slabs up to size 3). The snowpack has stabilized dramatically since then.
A variety of wind affected surfaces covers alpine and upper treeline terrain, while a hard crust is found up to 1800 m and higher on solar slopes. A solid mid-pack sits above some decomposing crust and facet layers near the bottom of the snowpack. Avalanche activity on these layers has been sporadic, mostly triggered by large loads such as a wind slab avalanches and cornice falls. These layers are likely unreactive under the current conditions, but steep rocky slopes should still be carefully assessed and approached with caution.
