While the strong over weak structure still exists (see photo), the reactivity of the January facets (DJL) has trended to unlikely. On a N aspect near 9710', in an area of Hidden Canyon that was away from tracks, we found a snowpack depth of 150cm; a 65cm mostly progressively well-settled slab of F to 4F snow (including a MFcr), sat over top the January facets. The January facets were generally still intact, and there was not a noticeable or supportable crust above the facets. No other signs of instability noted.
While the PWL is dormant and human-triggered avalanches are unlikely on this layer. However, weak structures like these aren't usually paired with the upcoming temperature increase next week. In fact, we looked back and the last time we experienced something along these lines: weak, faceted structure with a large warm up was in 2004. As temperatures rise with this structure, we will be concerned—and have substantial uncertainty—around if the PWL will "wake back up" and release wet slabs. Something to chew on as you move toward planning your next week...
General snowpack structure at upper elevation northerlies - supportable slab atop of faceted grains
