5" of new snow, combined with wind on Tuesday, continued to form slabs of drifted snow on all aspects in the high country. The snow surface has a pillowy, wind affected look to it indicative of the blowing and drifting that occurred. Slabs formed earlier in the week are gaining strength but some may still be sensitive to the weight of a skier or rider. Avoidance of steep slopes that show signs of recent wind loading is the safest strategy. If you do venture into steep terrain, be mindful of consequences where even a shallow wind slab could sweep you into rocks or carry you over a cliff.

Older, harder drifts that formed over the weekend exist on northerly facing slopes. These hard slabs are dangerous because they can allow you to get further down a slope before they break well above you. Hard drifts often produce hollow, drum-like sounds when you walk out on them. Any steep slopes that have a smooth, rounded, fat appearance, or that sounds hollow underneath should be avoided.

The small avalanche in this photo is a pocket of wind drifted snow that slid above Tele Gold. Notice how fat, rounded, and pillowy most of the snow appears in this photo. These slopes are obviously wind loaded. Any steeps slopes that look like this should be avoided.

• Only expose one member of the party at a time to avalanche terrain. The rest of the party should be in a safe spot with eyes on the skier or rider in the avalanche path.
• Have an escape route or "Plan B" in your head if an avalanche were to happen.
• Never ski above others parties in avalanche terrain. Keep open lines of communication with other touring parties.
• Consider the consequences of your terrain choices. What will happen if the slope slides? What is below you? What are you connected to?
• Continue to evaluate the snowpack and gather as much information as possible. Use test slopes that are representative of the terrain you wish to ski.