Eastside Region

Triggering an avalanche remains unlikely. Watch for isolated instabilities in extreme terrain and be ready for variable and challenging surface conditions in the mountains. 

You can expect a generally stable snowpack and variable surface conditions if traveling in the mountains today. You may find small, unreactive wind deposits on southerly slopes, as well as scoured surfaces and crusts. Many lower elevation slopes (all aspects) developed a crust after Friday's warm up. Most surfaces near and above treeline have been affected by the north winds, and you may encounter slick wind board, icy surfaces, and even old, unreactive wind slabs whilst traveling in these areas. Soft snow does remain in the most protected, shaded areas. Generally, as temperatures remain cold and we are met with chilly northerly winds, many crusts are not softening during the daytime hours. Sharp tools like crampons, ski crampons, and an ice axe may be essential to safely navigate certain slopes. A slip and fall in even benign terrain can have elevated consequences due to shallowly buried obstacles. 

Now is a great time to practice mountain travel skills, such as avalanche rescue practice and navigation, so that you're dialed when new snow comes around.