A weak layer remains in the snowpack.
Avoid thin snowpack areas.
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.
January 19
No new avalanches reported but observations are limited. Consider posting to the MIN if you are out in the mountains!
January 18
Large (up to size 2.5) explosive controlled avalanches were reported on southwest aspects in the alpine and treeline, failing on buried surface hoar.
January 16
A large (size 2) natural cornice triggered avalanche was reported on a northwest aspect.
The upper 80 to 150 cm of snow has been altered by previous strong southerly winds at upper elevations and has settled from warm temperatures at all elevations.
In sheltered ares at lower elevations this snow is possibly resting on surface hoar.
Expect a crust on or near the surface in almost all terrain from the prolonged heat, rain and inversion. Sheltered north facing terrain may still have soft snow in places.
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.
Tuesday Night
Mostly clear skies. 10 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C with an above freezing layer between 1600 m and 2600 m.
Wednesday
Sunny. 10 km/h northeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4 °C.
Thursday
Sunny. 10 km/h east ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -7 °C.
Friday
Sunny. 10 km/h east ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -7 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
