Clear skies and light to moderate winds will likely lead to some surface warming today on solar aspects. Significant loose wet activity will remain unlikely, but it is always important to keep an eye out of isolated instabilities. Field observations continue to highlight variable surface conditions. Some solar aspects that still hold snow are nearly isothermal and resembling a snowpack more typical to late spring. Conversely, many shaded aspects are equally thin and harboring a variety of sastrugi, stiff wind board, melt-freeze crusts, and loose dry faceted snow.
While our recent weather patterns have led to relatively benign avalanche conditions, the most significant hazards today are likely the thin coverage and a variety of slick surface conditions. Terrain selection and timing will be important if you decide to venture into the backcountry today. It may be necessary to climb on hard slick snow and wait for the sun to soften things up before descending. Continue to practice safe travel techniques and bring the proper equipment for your objective. Most importantly, be flexible and move to less consequential terrain if the challenging conditions don’t match up with your group’s equipment or ability level.