The primary avalanche concern today is wind-drifted snow. Winds were cranking up during our tour, and with a wind advisory in effect, I’d expect these wind slabs to continue growing in size and becoming firmer.
We observed significant snow transport, scouring along upper-elevation ridgelines, and deposition on all aspects where wind-drifted snow could accumulate. We also saw small-scale cracking and easily triggered wind slabs breaking on a density change within the snow. Most of these were only 6–10 inches deep and easily kicked off with a ski cut, but with increasing winds, I’d expect them to gain depth over the next 24 hours.
This additional load is the only real factor I’d be concerned about potentially stepping down into the lingering dust crust PWL or within a repeater slope that continues to reload.
Growing cornices along ridgelines - E aspect -10,000'
Shallow wind slab - E/NE aspect - 9800'
Widespread transport occuring along the cardiff ridgeline
