The effects of sun and wind were on full display in the mountains yesterday but good snow can still be found on sheltered, northerly aspects. It was a busy day in the mountains and some big lines were getting skied without incident. Isolated areas with potentially unstable slabs of wind drifted snow still exist however, and winds today will keep the threat alive. If you venture into high, alpine terrain, be sure you know how to identify and avoid potentially unstable slabs of wind drifted snow. Even a small avalanche could have serious consequences in areas of more extreme terrain.

As the day heats up, you will again need to be on the lookout for loose wet avalanches. Signs of instability include rollerballs, pinwheels, and sloppy wet snow. Stay off of, and out from under steep slopes where these signs are present.

And finally, cornices have grown huge in some areas. Give them a wide berth and stay out from under them.

Forecaster Dave Garcia found the goods on his day off yesterday. He reported wind affected snow on a nearby slope as well as isolated areas of wind slab that they were able to navigate around. Pay attention to changes in snow conditions on your ascent, especially if things suddenly feel dense or slabby. Minimize your risk on the descent by skiing one at time. Have an escape route and an established safe place to regroup. Check terrain features such as steep convexities with a slope cut, don't just blindly launch over them.