As has been the case for several weeks now, wind drifted snow continues to be our primary concern. Deep drifts from the last storm event have formed on the lee sides of ridge crests and terrain features on slopes facing NW-N-E. These drifts will primarily be found in upper elevation terrain though some exposed mid elevation slopes are also susceptible. At the highest elevations, a shift in wind direction has also deposited shallower, and more isolated drifts on to southerly aspects. Though gaining strength, I think human triggered avalanches up to 3' deep remain likely on steep, wind drifted slopes. A triggered wind drift also has the potential to step down into a buried, persistent weak layer causing a deeper, and even more dangerous avalanche.

Recent natural avalanche activity, 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.

As the day heats up, we may see some shallow, wet avalanche activity on sun exposed slopes. Stay off of slopes that grow wet and sloppy, and look for signs of instability such as pinwheels, rollerballs, or loose snow sluffs.