It's becoming more difficult to trigger an avalanche and most terrain has generally LOW danger. A very isolated or MODERATE danger for human triggered avalanches involving wind drifted snow still exists primarily on upper elevation slopes facing N-E-SE. Wind drifts are recognizable by their smooth, rounded appearance, and they may sound or feel hollow like a drum.
Wind slabs formed earlier in the week have gained strength and are becoming more difficult to trigger. They are also isolated, often existing adjacent to wind-scoured surfaces. Look for them on the lee sides of terrain features such as sub-ridges, rock buttresses, and gully walls. Approach steep terrain with caution, and suspect areas where the snow sounds or feels hollow like a drum.
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Weather: Another nice day is in store with sunny skies, mostly light NW winds, and high temps in the low to mid 30's. The next chance for snow looks like Sunday into Monday with a small storm moving through that might bring a few inches of snow.
Snowpack: The snowpack in the Abajos is holding up fairly well with an average depth greater than 4'. To be sure, areas with weak, sugary, faceted snow exist, but in general, the snowpack is mostly supportable. Most surfaces are have suffered the effects of wind and sun, but some soft snow can still be found in sheltered areas.
Snow totals at Buckboard Flat (8924')
Snow totals at Camp Jackson (8858')
This forecast is from the U.S. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This forecast describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.
