Although unlikely, persistent slab avalanches remain possible in isolated terrain. This problem exists on steep slopes facing north through northeast, especially those that are rocky, wind-loaded, or have a thinner snowpack. Although the last reported backcountry avalanche occurred on Jan 31, we continue to receive reports of poor snowpack structure (stronger slab over weaker facets) in isolated areas, particularly outside of the upper Cottonwoods.

The snowpack won't likely give you the usual clues of collapsing or whoomphing, so you will have to pull out your shovel and dig down to look for the poor structure. If you do choose to ride in terrain where this poor structure may be present, be sure to select slopes with clean runouts where you won't end up going into trees or over rocky cliff bands.

Drew provides a nice video description of how to choose terrain to avoid this persistent slab problem where good riding conditions remain.

Two additional avalanche problems to watch for today:

Wind Slabs:

Fresh drifts may be found from the west/northwest winds. Although I am not expecting these drifts to be widespread, there may be pockets along upper elevation ridgelines, especially those with an easterly component.

Loose Wet Sluffs

The winds should help keep the snow surface cool, however wet loose sluffs may be triggered on steep, sunny slopes as the snow heats up.