Avalanche forecast

Low Avalanche Danger does not mean that there is no danger at all...Continue good safe travel protocols like exposing only one person at a time to terrain steeper than 30 degrees...Natural and Human triggered avalanches are unlikely. Generally, safe avalanche conditions exist...Temperatures will warm today to increase the low likelihood of small, wet loose avalanches in very steep isolated Southern aspects and in and around Rocky terrain. 

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Normal caution: Enjoy the Sun and the good stability, but allow for some room for error like continuing to follow good practices in the backcountry like making sure your batteries are good in your transceiver, and that all of your group has one and a shovel and probe. Don't group up in terrain steeper than 30 degrees...A low avalanche hazard rating does not mean that there is not any avalanche hazard at all. Watch for unstable snow near cornices and ridgelines...Triggering a wind slab avalanche in middle and upper elevation terrain is unlikely, though not completely impossible. Small slides can send you off course enough that you now have a problem if you are in extreme or exposed terrain.

Large, strong cornices have built on ridgetops in upper elevation terrain and pose a serious hazard to backcountry travelers if they get too close to the edge. Wind-scoured snow on several different aspects can make skiing and riding conditions difficult and potentially dangerous on steep slopes. Keep an eye on steep, south-facing slopes as solar radiation increases, and beware of the terrain above you.

The Sun has formed a crust on the surface of many slopes that are tipped to the Sun, and more will form today. Surface hoar is still preserved in isolated areas that are protected from the Sun and wind. This is going to be something to be watching as we get more snow in the near future.

Consider the consequences before exposing yourself. Expose one person at a time on steeper slopes. Use safe travel protocols while traveling in the mountains and having fun.

*** Check out our Observations Page to see what others are seeing...We are always looking for more Information from snowmobilers and skiers on snow and weather conditions. These observations help our forecasts and they help other users in and outside of the community.

It can be quick with or without a photo…Use the Observations link at the top of the page to submit your observations. If you experience any unfortunate technical issues please email us at [email protected]…Thanks ahead of time.