Significant snowfall at the upper and mid elevations of Douglas brought 2-3 feet of new storm snow to upper elevations over the last few days. While this snow was initially pretty touchy it has had some time to heal and gain strength. Human triggered and natural avalanches are possible especially on steep unsupported slopes, convex rollovers, and the sides of gullies. Practice good route finding by staying out from under large connected slopes, travelling with good partners, and making smart line choices.
A significant storm slab has built up over the last couple days of snowfall bringing 2-3 feet of snow in upper elevations. This snow was initially touchy but has gained strength with time to heal and less snow yesterday and overnight. High winds accompanied the majority of the snowfall and have led to high variability in depths of the storm slab.
Periods of sun could lead to small wet loose activity on solar aspects like point releases and tree plops.
This recent storm has brought strong winds and heavy precipitation to our region. There is a high variability in snow depths due to wind transported snow. Expect preferential deposition on leeward aspects - meaning deeper and potentially stiffer slabs at lower elevations than usual start zones. The storm arrived right-side up, beginning warm and wet before gradually cooling. Forecasts indicate this cooling trend will continue. Both travel and stabilty tests from yesterday showed good signs of stability improving with some shooting cracks being reported early yesterday and none later in the day.
Prior to this recent storm, the snowpack had been largely dormant, and observations indicated a saturated snowpack with little to no evidence of lingering persistent grains. Anticipate any reacitvity to be within the new snow.
