Wet loose avalanches are the biggest concern right now. They are most likely on steep slopes that are baking in the sun. They are less likely if you are finding a thick, supportive surface crust. Pay attention to changing conditions through the day.
Freezing levels are falling overnight, but the surface snow may not solidly refreeze at low elevations. Loose wet avalanches have been common on steep, sunny slopes.
Paying close attention to how thick and supportive the surface crust is throughout the day, and sticking to shady slopes when the sun is packing a punch are good ways to avoid any wet loose avalanche problems.
FRIDAY NIGHT: Mostly clear. No new rain/snow expected. Light to moderate southwest ridgetop winds. Freezing level falling to between 1500 and 750 m.
SATURDAY: Scattered clouds. No new rain/snow expected. Light to moderate southwest ridgetop winds. Freezing level rising to 2300 m through the day.
SUNDAY: Scattered clouds. No new snow/rain expected. Light to southwest ridgetop wind, trending to strong at higher elevations. Variable freezing level could drop as low as 1000m overnight, rising to 2700 m through the day.
MONDAY: Mostly sunny with increasing cloud in the afternoon. No new snow/rain expected. Light southwest ridgetop wind, with periods of strong at higher elevations. Freezing level around 2300 m.
On Friday, a few small loose wet avalanches were reported during the warmest part of the day.
On Wednesday and Thursday, natural and rider triggered wet loose avalanches were reported on south-facing aspects from solar radiation and daytime warming (up to size 2). On Thursday, a few wet slab avalanches were reported in the alpine.
Remember that a lack of reported avalanches does not necessarily mean that there is a lack of avalanche activity. If you are out in the backcountry, and have photos, conditions updates, or even just good vibes to share, consider making a post on the Mountain Information Network.
In high elevation, shady terrain, a skiff of cold, dry snow may be found on top of firm surfaces. Refrozen crust on all aspects up to 2000 m and on solar aspects in the alpine. Surfaces are softening in the afternoon at low elevations, and on steep, sunny slopes. Recent warm temperatures, sun, and rain have made the top 10-15 cm of the snowpack moist.
The mid and lower snowpack are generally strong and well bonded.
