Both wet-loose and wet-slab avalanches are possible today. Expect the typical springtime cycle of wet-loose activity on any sun-exposed slopes with snow. Plan for a “get in, get out” approach, as the hazard will rise quickly with daytime warming.

The primary concern is wet-slab avalanches, which are more destructive and far less predictable than wet-loose slides. The potential for wet slabs exists on most aspects today, with the exception of the highest elevation northerly terrain. While wet slabs can be difficult to anticipate, the same red flags apply: rollerballs, saturated surface snow, and unsupportable conditions are clear signs it’s time to head out.

Trend: Increasing Danger. Avalanche danger involving wet snow will rise each day through the weekend. A historically shallow snowpack with poor structure adds to the concern. Wet-slab avalanches are possible today and could become likely as early as tomorrow. By late week and into the weekend, mountain travel will become increasingly hazardous, and desert recreation will be a safer choice.

Buried layers of weak, faceted snow continue to plague our snowpack near and above treeline on northerly facing slopes. Above treeline, thick, hard slabs 2-4 feet thick sit on top of these persistent weak layers. Although the likelihood for triggering a deep and dangerous avalanche has significantly decreased, all it takes is finding the right trigger point such as a shallow, rocky area or thin spot over a convexity.

The upcoming heatwave will likely increase the sensitivity of these weak layers. Cold, dry facets can often come back to life during periods of extreme heat. Right now, the risks of entering steep northerly terrain outweigh the potential rewards.