Seems like nearly every slope on the Skyline avalanched in the big February cycle, but those that didn't still have the potential to break to weak snow near the ground. While many slopes are thick and strong, the snow structure remains questionable, especially in steep, rocky terrain facing the north half of the compass. Problem is... the surface snow feels strong and solid underneath us, but it's the bad mojo near the ground that's the big red flag. Strong snow over weak snow often suggests false green light conditions, allowing us to get well out onto the slope or put several sets of tracks on the hill before we find a weakness, collapse the slope, and now all bets are off. Once triggered, avalanches can break deep and wide, taking out the entire seasons snowpack. Best way to manage this situation is with terrain choices. Simply tone down your objectives the next few days and avoid being on or under steep leeward slopes. Slopes facing the south half of the compass and terrain that already avalanched big in February offer more predictable avalanche conditions.

Yesterday's strong winds made up for lack of storm snow, forming fresh drifts in unusual locations and lower downslope than we usually see. Today's stout slabs may be a bit more stubborn, but will break deeper and wider than you might expect. They're packing a hefty punch and will quickly ruin your day, especially if you get slammed into trees or knocked over a cliff. In addition, once triggered, today's drifts have the possibility to break into weaker layers of snow, buried deeper in the snowpack. In either case, a seemingly benign situation can get quickly out of hand. As always, look for and avoid any fat, rounded pillow of snow, especially if it sounds hollow like a drum.

Cornices are huge and have the possibility to break back further than you might expect.