Very cold temperatures and minimal wind effect have stabilized the avalanche danger and riding conditions are in good powder snow, but we remain uncertain about the degree of wind effect in high alpine areas.
Visual evidence of wind effect in the high alpine surface snow leads to the suspicion that a windslab problem may exist (i.e.: above 3000 m). Watch carefully for density changes and cracking in the surface snow to evaluate this problem.
Loose dry avalanches can still be expected on steeper terrain and can gain mass quickly
No new avalanches reported today.
Last weekend's storm has settled into 15-20 cm of soft surface snow, mostly untouched by wind except in high alpine areas. This recent snow has buried a new weak layer (dated January 30) which will be important to watch in the future. Currently, minimal slab properties overlying the Jan 30 layer keep the danger moderate to low. The mid-pack is generally weak and faceted with an old crust and depth hoar near the base.
An arctic airmass continues to dominate the weather in the region, with Wednesday bringing mostly broken or clear skies, a few snowflakes, and temperatures ranging from -30 overnight to -15 during the day. Thursday through Saturday look bluebird and cold.
