Loose Wet
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Likely
- Size
- 1–2
The snowpack will see its first significant warming today. Strong spring sun will combine with above-freezing temperatures to 11,000 feet. Loose snow could thaw to a greater extent than in the past 2 days. There is more unconsolidated snow at the surface at higher elevations and in the northern half of the forecast area, where large avalanches will be more common.
Easterly aspects will warm first as the sun comes out this morning, followed by southerly and westerly aspects as the sun moves across the sky. Rocky areas, confined chutes, and slopes with shallow snow cover can exacerbate the effects of warming. The best way to manage Wet Loose avalanches is to travel early when the snow surface is colder. Time your trips to avoid crossing on or under very steep slopes in the heat of the day. Move to colder, shadier aspects before the snow surface transitions from dry to wet. Rollerballs and pinwheels are the first, most obvious warning signs of Wet Loose avalanches.
(3/24/2025) Photo: Samantha Rubin