Loose Wet
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–2
Generally poor conditions existed last night for a snow surface refreeze due to the combination of cloud cover and above freezing air temperatures. Some clearing of cloud cover occurred during the last few hours prior to sunrise this morning. A weak snow surface refreeze may have formed in some areas on open slopes as well as on mountain valley floors where cold air pooled overnight. No refreeze is expected to have occurred under forest canopy.
If a refreeze did occur last night in avalanche terrain, it was likely thin and superficial. Increasing amounts of sunshine along with air temperatures warming well above freezing will melt the snow surface and keep wet loose avalanches possible on all aspects today. Cornices that exist along many ridgelines are drooping and rounded, but may still collapse unexpectedly in isolated areas.
If a period of supportable travel conditions exists this morning, it will likely be short lived. Expect wet and mushy snow on most slopes today. Sinking into boot top deep wet snow or triggering roller balls and pinwheels can indicate that larger, wet loose avalanches could occur. If the snow feels wet and unsupportable, it's time to exit avalanche terrain and opt for low angle slopes.
(4/15/2025)
Debris from a recent wet loose avalanche in Cathedral Bowl on Mt. Tallac. It looked like enough debris to injure/partially bury a person.