Presidential Range

Mostly stable avalanche conditions exist, and large avalanches are unlikely. When wind increases, be on the lookout for drifts and pockets of windblown snow below ridgelines and on steep slopes. Evaluate deeper, wind drifted snow carefully, especially in steep consequential terrain. 

We're not facing a single, well-defined avalanche problem, but there are a couple of things you should consider before heading into the mountains:

• Small wind slabs forming on lee aspects of easterly terrain. Northwest winds are forecast to increase from 5-15 mph this morning to 25-40 mph in the afternoon. The recent wet snowfall, measuring 1.5 to 2 inches, is not likely to be moved easily by these winds, yet the possibility should not be dismissed entirely. Areas of dry, loose snow may exist at upper elevations and could be blown into steep, east-facing ravines. Look for snow blowing in the air at ridgelines as a red flag. Encountering a snowdrift that has been stiffened by the wind should be evaluated before committing. These drifts, if present, will likely be shallow, and conducting regular hand shear tests can be an effective way to check snow stability as you travel.
• Very small loose snow avalanches. On steep terrain, evaluate the bond between yesterday’s snow and the older snow. Yesterday’s storm started warm and wet before temperatures dropped, which likely glued the new snow to the old snow. However, the mix of freezing rain and ice pellets could have created pockets of loose frozen snow. This could be a problem in very steep terrain where losing your footing could result in a dangerous fall.  Be mindful of where you are, the consequences of a fall and the snow under your feet.  

OBSERVATIONS: Please consider submitting an observation of what you are seeing in your travels. Submitting an observation hones your skills, informs other users, and improves our forecasts.