West Slopes South

Get ready for a possible return to winter this week. The big shot of precipitation is expected on Tuesday, but first we'll have to deal with Monday.

This past weekend delivered a few rounds of snow showers at upper elevations. These storms likely weren't enough to increase avalanche potential. But on the southern volcanoes, you may find 1-3" of new snow above a crust at the upper reaches of our forecast bands. These same areas could squeeze out another inch or two of snow on Monday as westerly winds increase and snow showers move through the West South. By day's end, you may find shallow pockets of wind slab have developed on leeward slopes or specific terrain features such as the sides of rocky chutes. 

Otherwise, avalanche conditions will be largely the same as in recent days. You may be able to push a small wet loose on snow-covered slopes where moist snow is deeper than your ankle. Overhead hazards such as snow clinging to rocky ledges, sagging cornices, or chunks of ice stuck to cliffs could fail without warning as the mountains shed their winter coat. These events are unlikely but may be more common during or shortly after periods of rain.

Partial clearing on Sunday night could allow the surface to firm up in some locations, creating difficult travel in the morning hours. These same areas could also result in slips and long, uncontrolled slides. Be sure to bring the right equipment to travel safely over firm surfaces and know how to use it.

Overall, snow coverage varies greatly with aspect and elevation. That likely won't change much during this storm. Northerly, shaded slopes hold sufficient coverage for over the snow travel, especially at mid and upper elevations. On the flip side, southerly slopes are patchy at best and completely bare ground in some areas. Above 7,000 feet or high on the volcanoes, expect a more robust and winterlike snowpack. Everywhere, open holes and creeks, thin snow bridges, and exposed ground or rocks are commonplace.