Loose Wet
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–2
Below freezing overnight temperatures were reported from all remote weather stations throughout the forecast area with mostly clear skies. A very good refreeze of the snow surface is expected at all locations this morning. Moderate to strong NE winds today along with the good overnight refreeze will limit or delay softening of the snow surface in many areas. In wind protected mostly below treeline areas, the softening process and possibility of loose wet avalanches will just be delayed. In wind exposed near and above treeline areas, loose wet instabilities should be limited with some snow surfaces with direct wind exposure remaining firm crusts throughout the day. Loose wet avalanches will become possible as intense solar radiation and warming temperatures break down the surface crusts as wet snow forms.
Monitor snow surface warming and snow conditions while traveling in the backcountry. If the surface snow gets deep and wet, its time to move to a different aspect or to lower angle terrain to avoid this avalanche problem. Roller balls and pinwheels will be indications that the snow surface is rapidly warming and loosing strength. Even small loose wet avalanches can have increased consequences when terrain traps or downhill hazards exist.