Forecast for the Skyline Area Mountains

Brett Kobernik
Issued by Brett Kobernik on
Thursday morning, March 5, 2026

A storm moving through today won't significantly increase the avalanche danger. However, dangerous conditions still exist.

A CONSIDERABLE avalanche danger remains on steep slopes above 9500' that face northwest, north, northeast and east.

Human-triggered avalanches are not all that likely, although if you trigger one, it could be sizeable. It is difficult to determine which slopes will release and which won't. That is what makes this a dangerous situation.

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Weather and Snow

General Conditions: A cold front moved through this morning, bringing a small shot of snow. We've picked up about 2 inches as of 7am. Temperatures dropped to around 20°F. Wind has increased from the west. It's in the moderate speed range. Today's small amount of snow should help the riding conditions a bit, but we're still just smearing lipstick on a pig.

Mountain Weather: Expect periods of snowfall today and into Friday. The storm looks weaker for our zone than it did 24 hours ago. I'm only anticipating 3 to 5 inches of total snow by the time it's done on Friday. We'll have temperatures into the mid 20s today. Wind from the northwest looks like it'll stay in the moderate speed range today and Friday. Things clear out Saturday with temperatures into the 30s then warmer Sunday. For the longer range, I don't see any significant storms in sight.
Avalanche Problem #1
Persistent Weak Layer
Type
Location
Likelihood
Size
Description

Your biggest concern remains triggering an avalanche that breaks into weak sugary facets that formed in January. The weak layer is about 1 1/2 feet below the snow surface. You won't see any signs of avalanche danger today. But, if you dig down, you will, no doubt, find the loose sugary snow. You may notice it when you step off your skis or machine and punch through into it.

Today's snowfall won't affect the old weak layer all that much. However, there is no doubt in my mind that a person could trigger something today. The most likely spots to find trouble are above 9500 feet in elevation on steep slopes that face northwest, north, northeast and east.

General Announcements
This forecast is from the U.S.D.A. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This forecast describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.