Some areas of unstable snow exist on wind loaded features above treeline. Use caution below cornices and on cross loaded slopes and gullies near ridgelines. While most of our recent snow remains shallow and low density, if you find yourself in deeper or denser surface snow than elsewhere, you might be in a wind slab.
New snow from our recent storm was cold and light, providing ample snow for wind transport now that winds have increased. Wind loaded snow rests on surfaces that will be difficult to bond with, ranging from firm crusts to weak, sugary facets. Unstable wind slabs will grow in size and distribution as winds continue to increase due to a storm approaching the region.
Recent snow was less wind affected than expected yesterday, but last night's winds increased and will continue to redistribute the cold and light surface snow available for transport. Wind blown snow rests on firm crusts and weak, sugary facets – neither of which makes for easy bonding.
Non-avalanche hazards include firm conditions where old surfaces remain exposed or shallowly buried by recent snow, and shallowly buried obstacles normally expected during the early season.
A major storm is forecast to impact the region this week, and avalanche danger will increase significantly. With weak facets near the surface, our current snowpack is not prepared for the new loading.
