West Slopes Central

Generally safe avalanche conditions exist. If you make it to above treeline elevations, pay attention to snow conditions, as isolated pockets of wind-drifted snow may remain reactive. Snow conditions are variable, with firm, refrozen surfaces on south-facing slopes and challenging snow in below treeline areas as well. 

Avalanche conditions are generally safe, but continue to remain alert for outliers, especially in the form of reactive wind slabs on above treeline slopes Saturday. Feel for thicker snow and look for textured surfaces as indicators of wind slabs. If you find these snow characteristics, or obvious clues such as shooting cracks, avoid nearby steep slopes. Increasing winds throughout the day could develop more slabs to pay attention to as the day progresses.

Several backcountry travelers observed weak snow surfaces on Friday (surface hoar and near surface facets). Saturday night snow will begin falling, with freezing levels dropping to 3000ft overnight.  If the persistent weak layers stay preserved as snow falls, very touchy avalanche conditions could occur. If you're out on Saturday and notice whether surface hoar is still present or it's being destroyed by warm temperatures or wind, let us know by submitting an observation HERE.  This will help us paint a better picture of avalanche conditions as more snow falls. 

Temperatures will start warmer on Saturday, with freezing levels hovering around 4500ft for much of the day. Wind may cool surfaces, stopping them from getting too damp, but uncertainty lies in how much of an effect it will have. Prepare for the day with possibilities of moist, dry, soft, or firm snow surfaces.