East Slopes South

If there was ever a day this week to bring sharp tools such as ski crampons or whippets, Friday will be it. In addition to slick surfaces, low snow coverage has made recreation challenging, so come prepared with good travel techniques. This cooling trend should further solidify the snowpack, lowering the already low likelihood of avalanches on aspects that see direct sunshine.

This long and unwelcome high pressure has been marked by cold temperatures and low hanging clouds at lower elevations, and warmth and sunshine higher up. Friday will look much the same visually, but temperatures will actually even out, with cold temperatures above the fog, too. East flow wind patterns will add to these chillier temps. If you go in search of vitamin D in the mountains, consider how this change in weather could alter conditions. We already know that melt freeze surface crust formation is widespread, and the need for self-arresting equipment has increased. But the afternoon corn cycle travelers report day after day might not happen on Friday despite the sunshine, solidifying this need for "sharps".  The only change this weather shift will make to avalanche hazard is further lowering the likelihood.

Observations for the east side of the forecast region are beginning to trickle in that the snowpack on shaded terrain is softening, as the snow transforms into large, weaker grains known as facets. An NWAC Forecaster traveling in the zone on Wednesday found both near-surface and near-crust faceting snow in the upper portion of the snowpack on a northwest aspect. Accounts from the nearby East Central zone have similar findings. The cooler temperatures the zone will see on Friday will help this metamorphism along. While this doesn't really mean anything right now - other than you can find improved skiing and riding conditions on these slopes - these layers could become problematic once buried. 

The already meager snowpack has taken a beating in the last couple of weeks. There is very little snow across lower elevations and steep south-facing and windward terrain. You’ll find a more meaningful snowpack ranging from 2-3 ft as you move onto north and east aspects. Plan ahead for challenging travel and keep a watchful eye out for exposed obstacles and open creeks.

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