East Slopes South

A number of weak layers exist in the recent snow. Use caution on wind drifted slopes over 35 degrees and steer around steep start zones especially near ridgelines where you see evidence of wind loading. If you encounter rain or above freezing temperatures, choose lower angle slopes--wet avalanches may run easily on the stout crust below the surface.

Persistent slab avalanche problems exist in the neighboring West South and East Central zones. We think they are present throughout the East South zone, although we have no information to confirm this on the ground. Persistent slabs are very dangerous, surprising, and difficult to predict. They can propagate widely across terrain features and can result in very large and unsurvivable avalanches. Look for sugary, weak, or very soft snow above the stout rain crust from mid-January. If you find this layer, stay off of and don't travel underneath slopes over 30 degrees.

Near and above treeline, expect winds to have built fresh slabs with the recent snow. Use caution on steep slopes where you see evidence of wind accumulated snow. Firm and textured snow or cracking in the surface snow are sure signs that you could trigger a wind slab on terrain over 30 degrees. Fresh wind slabs may exist in combination with the persistent weak layer mentioned above.

Below treeline, rain and/or warm temperatures will weaken the surface snow, which sits above a firm crust from mid-January. Wet avalanches will run easily on this layer. Choose slopes under 35 degrees if you see evidence of rain, roller balls on the surface of the snow, or trees dripping water and shedding snow. Use extra caution around gullies, above creeks, and cliff bands where even a small avalanche could have big consequences.

See the avalanche forecasts for adjacent zones to the north (East Central) and west (West South) that both show signs of buried persistent weak layers within the upper snowpack. If you see weak layers in the snow or experience collapsing please let us know by submitting an observation.

At lower elevations, snow fell on ground that was bare prior to this week and rain may fall up to 4500 ft. Expect tricky travel down in the forest with plenty of obstacles and shallowly buried objects to block your path. 

During the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, continue to follow the latest guidance from local, state, and federal health officials. Avoid unnecessary risks that could impact first responders and stress medical resources.  Wear a mask when appropriate, practice social distancing, and consider recreating closer to home.