The upper snowpack is cold, dry loose snow that can move with you in terrain steeper than 30 degrees.
Above 7,000 feet you are more likely to trigger a wind slab.
The upper foot or more of the snowpack is staying light and dry. While this type of snow is some of the best and it seems harmless, it can become a problem in steep terrain with bad consequences. Be cautious on slopes steeper than 30 degrees, and at all elevations and aspects.
Use good travel protocols like spreading out, 1 at a time on slopes steeper than 30 degrees, and keep your eyes on your partners.
Above 7,000 feet, on all aspects look for signs or clues on the surface of the snow for where the wind sent all of this great, light, dry snow. Winds have trended down over the last 24 hours, and we have had a break in the snow, but it is still possible to trigger a wind slab in upper elevations.
Previously, the winds have mainly come from the S/SW, but have shifted W and NW. If you are seeing red flags like shooting cracks or hearing hollow sounds, choose another route.
Light winds with a few gusts reaching into the moderate range at the Granite weather station.
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Cold, light dry snow has given us quite a nice snowpack for the New Year. It's so light you could sneeze on it and send it flying. That is exactly what the variable light to moderate winds have been doing in the upper elevations.
In the last 24 hours we have seen light winds, cold temps, and some nice clear skies---this combination can be perfect for facet development near the surface as well as grow surface hoar. After we get more snow Monday afternoon, we could have a weak layer buried in our snowpack. Hopefully the winds today and tomorrow morning will have broken them down before they get buried.
Monday, the weather forecast is calling for some gusty winds upwards of 30 MPH at the start of our next storm cycle that will put down 1-2 feet of additional snow that will likely be warmer, and a little heavier on top of this dry snow.
Use good travel protocols like exposing only one person at a time to all steep slopes, keep your eyes on your partners, and carry an avalanche rescue gear (transceiver, shovel, and probe).
*** Check out our Observations Page to see what others are seeing...We are needing more Information from snowmobilers and skiers on snow and weather conditions. It helps our forecasts and it not only helps other users in and outside of the community, but it could save a person’s life also. If you travel to slide or ride to other regions, other avalanche centers are swelling with information from other users for your trip planning.
It can be quick with or without a photo…Use the Observations link at the top of the page to submit your observations. If you experience any unfortunate technical issues please email us at [email protected]…Thanks ahead of time.
