Strong northeasterly winds have reverse loaded slopes below ridgetops. Recently formed wind slabs may be reactive to human triggers.
Use high points in the terrain such as ridges or ribs to avoid areas of wind-loaded snow.
Recent wind has varied in direction so watch for wind slabs on all aspects.
Use high points in the terrain such as ridges or ribs to avoid areas of wind-loaded snow.
Monday night: Partly cloudy / Strong east wind / Low of -21 / Freezing level valley bottom.
Tuesday: Mix of sun and cloud / Moderate east wind / High of -10 / Freezing level valley bottom.
Wednesday: Mix of sun and cloud / Light southeast wind / High of -9 / Freezing level valley bottom.
Thursday: Sunny / Light southeast wind / High of -5 / Freezing level valley bottom.
No new avalanches were reported on Sunday.
20-40 cm of recent snow buries a melt-freeze crust that exists on all aspects to at least 2000 m. A sun crust likely extends to mountain tops on solar aspects.
Recent strong winds from a variety of directions formed wind slabs on lee aspects at treeline and above.
The prominent layer in the upper snowpack is a melt-freeze crust down 50-70 cm.
Cornices are very large and exposure to slopes beneath them should be minimized, especially if the weather is sunny, warm, or windy.
