After some discussion, we’ve dropped the persistent slab problem despite a deeper underlying poor snowpack structure that can be found in many areas. The new snow from this past week has settled well, and without any reports of avalanches breaking down in deeper weak layers and the discontinuity that has been found across slopes, it is time to remove this as a problem. That doesn’t mean that a deeper slab avalanche is impossible, just very unlikely at this point. It is always important to do your own localized assessments and practice safe travel protocols by spreading out and exposing one person at a time to steeper slopes.
A shallow snowpack exists in many areas and sharks abound! Be aware of rocks and logs lurking just under the snow surface ready to snipe you. There have been some serious injuries already this past week. Tone it down, this is especially not a time to get hurt!