As a small system grazed our region this weekend it produced moderate to strong southwesterly winds, and a trace to two inches of snow. This has created shallow wind slabs on leeward and cross loaded terrain facing north and east. Prior to this event we were able to gain observations from both FAC staff and public. We found a buffet of crusts and facets, as well as some newly developed surface hoar as shown in this observation.

As this next system approaches from the Northeast Tuesday evening, it delivers a heavy punch of winds and 1-3 inches of snow. Marias Pass appears to be favored with a possibility of 6 inches of snow. This new snow, accompanied by strong northeasterly winds, will leave pockets of hard wind slabs on south through west aspects. As you make your approach, take the time to see which direction snow is being blown around and where it is being deposited. If you find yourself moving across terrain that has fresh pillows, it may be time to step back.

Last week, a large precipitation event produced several very large (D3) avalanches in Glacier National Park, as shown here.  We are returning to a quieter weather pattern now with light amounts of precipitation and winds expected to strip the new snow from suspect start zone.  Under our current weather patterns, persistent slabs are becoming harder to trigger.  However, we are in early season operations and still have limited observations from the field.  Take the time to assess the snowpack structure if you are venturing into high, alpine terrain.