Pockets of soft and hard wind drifts exist across the range though they are getting very stubborn. Look for slightly rounded, smooth pillows and areas with more of a scalloped appearance. Remember that with soft slabs, you're "in" the snow; for hard slabs, you're "on top of" it. Treat wind-damaged terrain with suspicion today. Winds are forecast to increase this afternoon and any dry snow left will be available for transport - avoid steep slopes with freshly wind-drifted snow.

Remember that risk is inherent in mountain travel. One can never diminish it entirely and for some of us this is part of the attraction. To minimize our exposure we can travel in appropriate terrain and strive to understand snow and avalanches. Confidence in your and your partners rescue skills is imperative. We are moving into the season where early starts and early departures should become standard.

With that -

Shallow damp push-alanches and small loose wet avalanches may be possible with daytime warming, particularly in wind protected, sun drenched terrain.

Slide-for-life conditions from last week's rain event also exist in some steep terrain.

Cornices continue to be suspect along the ridgelines. Stay well back from the edge.

Though this skier-triggered cornice break is near Jackson, WY, it clearly demonstrates the harsh consequences of getting too close to the edge. (The unlucky skier fell 1000' vertical and remains in critical condition.)