West Slopes North

Avalanche danger is low as temperatures slowly drop. A couple inches of snow may accumulate by the end of the day, but danger should not rise yet. Very large cornices and variable snow conditions are probably your largest concerns on Sunday.

Temperatures spiked on Saturday and most wet loose avalanches already ran, but stay alert if slopes remain moist on Sunday. The increased cloud cover may limit the wet snow’s ability to freeze overnight. Additionally, cloudy skies could mean the previously dry cold powder on northerly aspects might get damp, so you may see small avalanches, but that is unlikely. 

If you are considering complex north-facing terrain at higher elevations, stay alert for the odd wind slab, which may still react to your weight in isolated areas. New snow isn’t expected to accumulate much during the day, but the combination of fresh snow and wind could form small reactive wind slabs to look out for on leeward slopes. 

Cornice fall is the other notable concern. Cooling temperatures are reducing the risk, but any chance of it occurring is scary. Check out the photo of the cornice triggered avalanche from Thursday, triggering a large D2 avalanche on the wind loaded slope beneath it. A cornice could trigger a wind slab that wouldn’t react otherwise, or a deeper avalanche on large, exposed upper elevation slopes. For this reason be very wary around cornices, staying far back from their edges and limit your exposure beneath corniced ridgelines.

Travel conditions may challenge you, as you might find slick, or bumpy frozen surfaces on  southerly and low elevation slopes. You will probably also find punchy crusts, and sticky snow as well. 

During the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, continue to follow the latest guidance from local, state, and federal health officials. Avoid unnecessary risks that could impact first responders and stress medical resources.  Wear a mask when appropriate, practice social distancing, and consider recreating closer to home.