Early morning avalanche danger is Low at all elevations, then once the temperatures warm up it quickly spikes up - however, low danger can still be found throughout the day on high elevation north facing terrain where the snow remains excellent.
Summary
Weather Forecast
This clear and beautiful weather will continue until late Wednesday, when a Pacific system moves into the area. Tuesday will start with a cold morning (overnight low of -14) but will quickly warm up to reach +5 to +10 again in the afternoon with no wind. Another perfect day ahead!
Snowpack Summary
North aspect snow is soft, cold and well settled with few weak layers of concern. South and west aspect snow has a suncrust on the surface that becomes moist by 11am. Currently we are moving from Low danger in the morning to High danger in the afternoon on solar aspects - so get an early start.
Avalanche Summary
Widespread wet loose avalanches up to size 2 running by 10 am today on sun exposed slopes. In particular, steep faces with rocks and cornices were alive with wet snow avalanches today and should be avoided.
Confidence
Problems
Loose Wet
Avoid steep gully areas and any sun exposed faces or overhead terrain - it will avalanche when the sun hits it. Stick to shaded terrain and look way overhead to make sure nothing big is hanging above you - things are falling off these days.
Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Cornices
Hot weather means cornice season, and this is the time when large mature cornices begin to fall off and the mountain sheds its snowpack. On ridges stay well away from cornices (they can reach back and get you), and avoid traveling under them.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Mar 13th, 2018 4:00PM
