After nearly a week of steady blowing and drifting, winds have been light over the past few days. Slabs of wind drifted snow that formed during the windy period have mostly stabilized but there may still be a few drifts out there that remain sensitive to the weight of a skier or rider. Potentially unstable drifts are most prevalent on steep, northerly facing slopes above treeline. They will be the most problematic in areas of consequential terrain where you could be swept into rocks or carried over a cliff. As you begin setting your sites on larger terrain, continue to avoid steep, wind drifted slopes.

This is an example of the type of steep, wind drifted terrain you should still avoid. Note the areas of wind drifted snow hanging above consequential terrain.

The "pillowy" nature of the snow in this photo indicates recent wind drifting.

• 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.