West Slopes South

Not much has changed as high pressure continues to dominate the West South zone. A melt-freeze cycle has resulted in minimal avalanche concerns, but has created slick surfaces. With the addition of thin snow cover and exposed objects, travel hazards have emerged as the main dangers in the mountains. 

A high-pressure weather pattern continues to deliver bright sunshine and unseasonably warm temperatures across the West South zone. Light easterly winds near the crest may linger on Monday, so overall conditions will look very similar to the past several days.

This stretch of clear days and cold nights has changed the snow surface into a firm, slick crust each morning, even as air temperatures remain above freezing. On slopes that receive direct sun, that crust often breaks down midday, while shaded aspects and wind-affected terrain generally stay firm. 

The silver lining to this diurnal cycle is that wet avalanche activity has been kept largely in check, resulting in generally safe avalanche conditions. Still, low danger doesn’t mean no danger. On steep, sun-exposed slopes, it may be possible to push a small wet loose slide if the snow becomes wet and punchy. In isolated terrain, chunks of snow may shed from rocky ledges, sagging cornices could collapse, or ice may fall from high alpine features. All of these events are unlikely, but the consequences would be serious if you were caught beneath them.Managing this hazard comes down to terrain awareness and exposure. Be aware of what's above you and give features that are common to shed style avalanches a wide berth. If you must pass below them, move through quickly and deliberately.

The biggest challenge you face may simply be getting around safely. The warm, sunny weather has taken a noticeable toll on the snowpack, leaving open creeks, exposed rocks, stumps, and trees. Those firm crusts have resulted in slide-for-life conditions in steep terrain, and coverage remains well below normal for this time of year. Careful route selection, proper equipment, and a conservative mindset will go a long way as we wait for winter to return.