East Slopes Central

Avalanche conditions are generally safe. There is a small chance that you will encounter an isolated pocket of wind-loaded snow on a high-elevation, exposed slope. The bigger hazards to contend with are icey and cold conditions that will complicate rescue efforts should you fall and get hurt. Ensure you're carrying appropriate gear that you know how to use and take note of consequential terrain below you.

A dry upper-level weather disturbance will bring clouds and strong ridgeline wind speeds to the zone overnight Monday into Tuesday. By Tuesday morning, the skis will be clear but strong winds will linger. With low avalanche danger; here are a few things to keep in mind if you get out:

• If you were to find unstable wind-loaded snow, it would be in a piece of complex, rocky terrain at upper elevations. Investigate for instability if you see blowing snow. Use clues like rippled snow surfaces and cornices to identify the previous wind-loading pattern. Wind-loaded snow nearby will look comparatively smooth and rounded.
• Be prepared for slick and variable surfaces. Consider bringing ski/boot crampons, whippets/ice axes, and extra layers to contend with the cold. The consequences of an uncontrolled fall on a steep slope could be substantial if you are carried into trees, rocks, or cliffs.
• You can find agreeable conditions if you look in the right places. You might encounter some softening snow on slopes that see direct sunshine. Dry powdery snow starts around 5000 ft on north-facing, open slopes.
• Be sure to pay close attention to the forecast when stormy skies return. Presently weakening snow surfaces could be an issue when new snow arrives and falls on top.

Help NWAC Forecasters reduce uncertainty by submitting an observation. Obs are marvelously helpful even during periods of inactive weather and low avalanche hazard!