Cornices
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Unlikely
- Size
- 1
Small, isolated unstable wind slabs are unlikely but not impossible today in near treeline and above treeline terrain. If you encounter a smooth looking, not icy area near treeline or above treeline, you may have found the isolated, potentially unstable wind slab. Express some uncertainty and move around it with caution.
Another round of warming and snow surface melt is expected today on southerly aspects. The expected amount of wet snow formation is unlikely to create much in the way of a loose wet avalanche problem. Expect more warming and wet snow formation around exposed rocks, especially if wind protected. If you encounter a few inches or more of surface wet snow, manage for a loose wet avalanche problem.
If venturing into couloirs, cliff areas, or other complex terrain where snowpack variability is usually greater, expect a greater likelihood of finding that isolated area of unstable snow. In this type of terrain, expect that the consequences of an otherwise tiny and inconsequential avalanche will be magnified by the rocks and cliffs below you. Today's danger rating is the call to lull your brain into complacency. Avoid that by using the tactics of Normal Caution while in or below avalanche terrain, just as if the danger rating were higher in order to minimize exposure and consequences from an unexpected human triggered avalanche.