Continuous, moderate to strong SW winds have likely managed to etch through crusted over south faces, and drift snow on to northerly aspects. Most of theses recent wind slabs will be stiff, and shallow, but if you triggered one in the high country it could take you for a ride. Older, deeper drifts still exist on northerly aspects as well, and though most are now welded in to place, give pause to any steep slope that has a smooth rounded appearance and consider the consequences. A triggered deep wind drift also has the potential to step down into a buried persistent weak layer causing a deeper and more dangerous avalanche.

Natural avalanche activity from the last storm cycle, as well as a remotely triggered avalanche last week, demonstrate that a dangerous persistent weak layer problem still exists. The problem is becoming less widespread, but that perhaps makes it more insidious. Areas with a shallower snowpack are the most suspect and this includes slopes that have already avalanched, or that have been previously wind scoured. Steep, rocky slopes facing N-NE-E have been the most active, but weak snow and poor test results are still being encountered on SE facing slopes. Careful snow stability analysis is essential, and the bottom line is that local observers and I are going to continue to avoid slopes steeper than 35 degrees, especially those with a northerly aspect.