East Slopes South

Avalanche concerns are limited to leeward, upper elevations that hold shallow slabs of wind drifted snow. Be mindful of slopes that promote drifting and steer around steep features if you notice cracking under your feet or machine. Firm surfaces may be your most significant hazard, especially in steeper, scoured terrain or during the early morning hours. 

Friday is shaping up to be a touch warmer than Thursday with freezing levels creeping up towards 6500 ft. This warming should help steep solar slopes at middle and lower elevation soften during the late morning and early afternoon hours. However, with another cold night on Thursday, expect very firm, slide-for-life conditions on windward slopes, especially during the early morning hours. Consider carrying crampons, a self-arrest tool, and the ability to move over firm snow before venturing into steep, icy terrain.

Places that hold softer dry snow are also where you might find the potential avalanche problem. Isolated, shallow, wind slabs do exist in upper elevation leeward terrain. While these may be small, don’t underestimate small avalanches in steep terrain that could quickly turn consequential. Be mindful of these slabs of drifted snow as you change aspects in windier terrain. Consider steering around these smoother drifted areas if you notice cracks shooting out from your feet or skis and in areas that may sound hollow like a drum.

 You can contribute to the avalanche forecast! Submit an observation here.