The cold dry storm snow will turn on a dime today with the direct sun and skyrocketing temperatures and all the recent storm snow will run fast and far on the underlying crusts on the east, then south, then west facing slopes. Wet loose and (possibly) wet slab avalanches are certain on these sunlit slopes. Cement-like debris piles will be impressive under the steepest, most sustained terrain. Low to mid elevation shady slopes will also become unstable with the dramatic warming and may gouge into unconsolidated wet grains below (creating a much larger avalanche).

Initial signs of instability include rollerballs, pinwheels, initially small sluffs. These are signs to seek colder aspects or low angle terrain.

Timing is key. Plan your descents and exits accordingly.

CORNICES will become more sensitive as they sag in the sweltering heat. These have become enormous this winter and destruction from cornice failure has been well observed and documented this week. INFO.

ROOF-ALANCHES are also expected with the sun and temperatures. PLEASE spread the word to other homeowners in the mountains. Roof-alanche fatalities have occurred in the West this year with many close calls.