Avalanche Forecast

A couple of large (size 2-3) persistent slab, human-triggered avalanches have been reported over the weekend. Avalanches have occurred near ridgetops in north-to-northeast alpine terrain. Both avalanches have shown an impressive capability of propagating large distances. Here is a link to the most recent human-triggered size 3 avalanche.

Significant uncertainty remains about the distribution and extent of the problem.

If you are out in the backcountry please consider filling out a Mountain Information Network report.

In alpine terrain, recent winds have created a variety of wind-affected surfaces. New snow and wind will create thin wind slabs in exposed terrain features.

Persistent weak layers of surface hoar and/or facets continue to persist in northerly terrain near ridgetops, creating a number of recent, scary human-triggered avalanches.

Below roughly 1700 m a widespread, supportive, melt-freeze crust is present, with moist snow below.

Monday night

Cloudy with light snow, 2 to 5 cm. Treeline temperatures -5 to -10 C. Moderate southwest alpine winds.

Tuesday

Cloudy, with flurries, 0 to 2 cm. Treeline temperatures -5 to -10 C. Light alpine winds, shifting from southwest to northeast.

Wednesday

Cloudy, no precipitation. Treeline temperature -15 to -20 C. Moderate northeast alpine winds.

Thursday

Cloudy, no precipitation. Treeline temperature -15 to -20 C. Moderate alpine winds.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• In times of uncertainty conservative terrain choices are our best defense.
• Potential for wide propagation exists, fresh slabs may rest on surface hoar, facets and/or crust.
• Make observations and assess conditions continually as you travel.