A heavy load of recent, and wind drifted snow has been added to a pre-existing slab on top of a persistent weak layer of loose, sugary, faceted snow at the base of the snowpack. This has resulted in widespread natural avalanche activity on northerly aspects. The recent load has provided quite a thump, and as the dust settles so to speak, we should see a trend towards greater stability. With the magnitude of these avalanches, however, we need to give things some time. It is still possible if not likely to trigger one of these monsters. Likely trigger points include shallow, rocky areas, along slope margins, or on steep convexities.

Increased south and westerly winds have created fresh deposits of wind drifted snow on northerly aspects. Shifting wind directions since Friday's storm have blown and drifted snow on to all aspects near and above treeline. Older wind slabs have likely gained strength over the past few days, but you may still find some sensitive to the weight of a skier or rider lurking just about everywhere in wind exposed terrain. Wind slabs form on leeward slopes just below ridge crests. They can also be found on the leeward sides of terrain features such as sub ridges, gully walls, and rock outcroppings. Fresh drifts are recognizable by their smooth, rounded appearance, and cracking is a sign of instability. On northerly aspects, wind drifted snow has added stress to older slabs on top of a buried persistent weak layer and dangerous, human triggered avalanches 3'-5' deep are possible. Avoid steep, wind drifted slopes.