West Slopes North

Watch for small wind-loaded pockets in alpine terrain, along with wet snow shedding off sunny cliffs. Expect a firm, frozen surface to start the day.

For the most part, there just isn’t much happening avalanche-wise over the next 24 hours. Observers in the Baker Backcountry on Sunday reported a firm crust with about an inch of new snow on top—and little else of note. Recent wet avalanche activity appears to have run its course, and the upper snowpack is continuing to refreeze and attain a concrete-like consistency. If overnight temperatures stay warmer than forecast, you could still see a bit of wet snow shedding from cliffs receiving full sun.

Even though active wind transport isn’t expected, there has been just enough snow and wind over the past few days to form wind slabs in alpine terrain. These should be isolated in distribution and generally small, but could still be an issue in steep, consequential terrain with cliffs, crevasses, or other hazards below. Pay attention to subtle signs of wind loading and take a moment to assess how well these slabs are bonded before committing to steeper lines.

Travel will be more about managing conditions than avoiding avalanches. Expect firm, supportable surfaces in the morning. Solar input may soften sun-exposed slopes, while shaded terrain remains firm. Building clouds should limit afternoon warming.

Looking ahead, an approaching storm will begin to impact the area Monday evening with increasing winds. Precipitation is expected to start Tuesday morning, but with warming temperatures, rain is expected to push into mid elevations, limiting snow accumulation outside of the higher terrain.