Strong southerly winds and heavy dense snow have formed stiff wind slabs in exposed terrain right around treeline and above. In many areas these new slabs are overlying lower density snow giving them a hollow base. Avoid slopes that have a smooth, rounded, fat appearance, or that feel hollow under foot.. A triggered wind slab also has the potential to step down into a buried weak layer causing a deeper and more dangerous persistent slab avalanche. Choose slopes wisely and avoid steep convexiiteis and blind break overs.

A few of the ridges are starting to develop large cornices. Give cornices a wide berth when you are traveling on ridge crests where they are present and be aware of what's above you.

The persistent slab problem is tricky and variable - some areas have relatively strong snow and other areas still have very weak, sugary, faceted snow at the base. The weakest areas are in steep, rocky, and wooded terrain right around tree line and above. Slopes with an easterly component are the most suspect. The snowpack may be stronger on more open slopes and bowls. The only way to know for sure is to dig down and perform a stability test. Also keep in mind that thinner areas along slope margins and near rock outcroppings can provide trigger points and avalanches up to 4' deep remain possible.

With temperatures rising into the high 30's or even low 40's there is also the danger for loose wet avalanches on sun exposed slopes. These should be mostly small but could prove dangerous on the wrong slope. Signs of instability include roller balls, pinwheels, and punchy or sloppy wet snow. Get off of, and stay out from under steep slopes when these signs are present.

Even small slides such as this are an indicator of wet snow instability. (Tim Mathews photo)