West Slopes South

Friday will be the coldest day of the past several weeks. The cooldown isn't accompanied by precipitation, so you probably won't be able to buy an avalanche. Instead, you'll need to deal with icy slopes capable of producing a long, uncontrolled slide. 

The weather and avalanche conditions have been stagnant for well over a week in the West South zone. On Friday, we'll get a slight change in the weather, with colder temperatures than we've experienced since early January, less sunshine, and an increase in cold easterly winds. This change will likely drag avalanche potential even lower, if that's possible. The only threat imaginable is if a rogue block of snow sheds from a rocky ledge or a corniced ridgeline. 

So what you'll need to watch out for are travel conditions. In recent days, sunshine has combined with generally warm weather to soften sun-exposed slopes above the inversion line. Don't expect that to happen on Friday. All slopes will likely remain frozen throughout the day, potentially leading to long, uncontrolled slides. Carry the correct equipment to mitigate this hazard and know how to use it. 

Elsewhere, you'll still need to contend with open creeks, exposed rocks and bushes, and bare ground. It's a bit grim out there for winter lovers, but fun can still be had in the mountains with a bit of care and an open mindset. Don't worry, we'll be back to warmer weather on Saturday, but still no snow.