Our most recent round of storm snow has settled well. Avalanche danger is MODERATE above treeline with lingering windslabs in steep terrain being your primary concern. Avalanches will likely be resistant to triggering. With our current cold snap even a small avalanche could have dire consequences. Take a hard look at potential consequences before committing to any steep terrain, and throw an extra coat in the pack today!
There are still some windslabs out there that developed during the last storm. They will likely be stubborn and resistant to triggering. Suspect areas will be steep terrain near ridgeline, cross-loaded gullies and convex terrain features at upper elevations. If you are seeing cracks in the surface of the snowpack or feel the snow increasing in density then you are likely on a wind slab.
Abundant amounts of snowfall and cold temperatures have increased the amount of surface snow available for "sloughing" in steep terrain. Although relatively harmless compared to a slab avalanche, it is worth keeping in mind. Pay attention to potential consequences before entering steep terrain. Becoming entangled in a small slide and getting injured can have high consequences with our current temperatures.
Well, we have the snow and now the cold air, finally feels like a real winter in Montana! The storm that rolled through last weekend brought us abundant snowfall and some fairly strong winds at times. This created some short-term avalanche hazards that have settled out nicely the past couple of days. Those pesky windslabs appeared to be the most concerning on Monday as there was still some cracking observed in wind affected terrain. Observers were unable to get any movement out of these slabs and reported them as "resistant to triggering" at this time. The most important thing right now is to pay attention to those surface clues, such as density changes in the snowpack and any cracking under your feet or machine. Even if these slabs are stubborn and small it is worth considering the high consequences of getting hurt in these temperatures. Laying on the snow in single digit temps while waiting to be rescued will not be enjoyable. This cold snap appears to be with us until the weekend as temperatures are forecasted to rise on Sunday with an increase in snowfall potential.
Dress warm and happy shredding!
