Loose Wet
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–2
Slightly colder temperatures and fewer clouds last night in some places may have allowed yesterday's wet snow to refreeze in spots. Still, clouds lingered over some of the forecast area, and temperatures remained above freezing in many places, so the refreeze may be thin and weak in most places. Rising temperatures and intense April sun should create additional wet snow and melt through any refrozen crusts today. Wet loose avalanches will again be possible. Due to the potentially poor refreeze and high sun angles, wet snow could exist on any aspect. Wet loose avalanches could entrain enough snow to knock a person over or push them into a terrain trap that magnifies the consequences of an avalanche. Long, steep slopes could produce larger wet loose avalanches since they gather more snow as they slide downhill. Sun and warmth may also weaken cornices that linger along many ridgelines.
Pay attention to the changing snow conditions as the day warms up. Sinking into boot-top deep wet snow, roller balls, and pinwheels can indicate larger, wet loose avalanches can occur. Once the snow feels wet and unsupportable, it's time to move away from avalanche terrain onto less steep slopes.
(4/7/2025)
D2 Wet loose avalanche across Emerald Bay Road. Photo from CHP's Facebook page.