Buried weak layers continue to demand careful terrain selection. Avoid high-consequence avalanche terrain and use caution traveling in wind-loaded, shallow, rocky start zones.
Variable winds in the alpine have likely created wind slabs in exposed terrain, near ridge features and high points. At lower elevations the surface snow is capped by a melt-freeze crust, limiting the amount of snow available for wind transport.
A number of buried weak layers remain possible to trigger. These layers appear to be most problematic in upper treeline/lower alpine elevations, in shallow, rocky start zones.
A widespread melt-freeze crust exists on the surface at roughly 1900 m and below. This crust continues to gain strength and become supportive to travel with cold temperatures. At higher elevations, above 1900 m, surface snow has been redistributed by recent winds.
In the mid and lower snowpack, a number of buried weak layers remain a primary concern. These layers are most concerning in shallow, rocky areas at treeline and alpine elevations.
Avalanche activity has decreased significantly with the cold temperatures. However, 2 large natural avalanches were reported in the area. Occurring below treeline, toward the end of the recent warm, wet weather, both failing on weak layers near the base of the snowpack.
If you are out in the backcountry please consider filling out a Mountain Information Network report.
Friday night
Mostly clear, with isolated flurries. Trace amounts of snow. Treeline temperatures -10 to -15 C. Moderate northeast alpine winds.
Saturday
Sunny, with no precipitation. Treeline temperatures -10 to -20 C. Light to moderate northeast alpine winds.
Sunday
Sunny, with no precipitation. Treeline temperatures -5 to -15 C. Light northwest alpine winds. Potential for strong alpine temperature inversion.
Monday
A mix of sun and cloud, with isolated flurries. Treeline temperatures -5 to -10 C. Light to moderate northwest alpine winds. Potential for strong alpine temperature inversion.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
