The deep persistent slab problem remains a concern. This low probability, high consequence problem continues to produce large avalanches. Diligence in terrain choice is essential.
A weak layer near the base of the snowpack is a concern where a crust down 10 to 20 cm is not supportive. Generally at higher elevations in the alpine and steep, rocky, open features at treeline, is where triggering this layer is possible.
Several dry loose up to size 1 were reported across the region on Friday.
Details on a recent large avalanche near Golden reported in this MIN and pictured in this MIN are sparse. Sporadic deep persistent avalanche activity continues to occur in this region. Steep, rocky treeline, and alpine terrain where the crust is not supportive are likely trigger spots.
New snow has buried various surfaces of soft snow, wind-affected, and sun crusts, further burying a crust now down 15 to 20 cm. This crust is generally supportive but tapers in the alpine and may be unsupportive to riders.
The midpack is generally faceted and the lower snowpack contains weak faceted grains, depth hoar, and crusts that continue to produce sporadic large avalanches.
Saturday Night
Cloudy with isolated flurries beginning 1 to 2 cm accumulated. Alpine wind southwest 10 to 15 km/h. Treeline temperature -9 °C.
Sunday
Mostly cloudy isolated flurries with 3 to 6 cm accumulated. Alpine wind southeast 10 to 15 km/h. Treeline temperature -7 °C.
Monday
Cloudy with isolated flurries with 1 to 2 cm accumulated. Alpine wind variable 10 to 20 km/h increasing overnight. Treeline temperature -6 °C.
Tuesday
Cloudy with sunny breaks. Alpine wind northwest 15 to 20 km/h. Treeline temperature -12 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
