As the surface crust breaks down the likelihood of triggering an avalanche will increase.
It is uncertain how the continued warmth will affect the snowpack so watch for signs of instability.
Expect to encounter new wind slabs near ridgecrests. Past winds have been strong and from the southwest, it may be possible to find wind slabs lower on lee aspects terrain, in locations that you would not typically expect.
A buried layer of surface hoar on a crust is particularly concerning in the north of this region.
This layer may become more reactive as the warm air lingers.
Steep south aspect terrain will begin to destabilize when temperatures rise and the sun is out.
Consider avoiding these features during daytime warming.
January 16
A large (size 2) natural cornice triggered avalanche was reported on a northwest aspect.
January 14
A natural avalanche cycle was reported, with small (size 1) wet avalanches at lower elevations and large (up to size 2.5) wind or persistent slab avalanches in the treeline and alpine.
80 to 150 cm of snow fell recently throughout the region. The snow has been heavily redistributed by strong southerly winds at upper elevations and has settled from warm temperatures at all elevations.
At treeline and below, recent rain and warm temperatures may have affected the surface snow. As temperatures cool this warm and wet snow has formed a stout melt freeze crust.
A layer of surface hoar is buried 40 to 70 cm deep in sheltered treeline features.
The mid and lower snowpack is well settled with no current layers of concern. Treeline snow depths throughout the region range from 150 cm to 250 cm.
Saturday Night
Clear skies. 10 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 4 °C. Freezing level 2900 m.
Sunday
Sunny. 10 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 4 °C. Freezing level 3100 m.
Monday
Mostly sunny. 40 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 2 °C. Freezing level 3100 m.
Tuesday
Mix of sun and clouds. 10 km/h east ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -1 °C. Freezing level 2400 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
