Weather

The CRH avalanche season has officially begun. After a slow start, winter has arrived. Recent snow fall left us with near a foot of snow at sea level, near 3 feet at 1500 feet, and up to twice as much in the upper mountains. Moderate east wind has loaded western aspects. Some small, isolated soft snow avalanches have been observed at tree line and above.

Expect precipitation to continue through next week. Confidence in the weather forecast is wavering. Weather models suggest 2 inches of water this weekend with the freezing level climbing from sea level to our local peaks Monday and Tuesday. This could translate into 2 feet of new snow in the upper mountains. Not enough snow exists to pose much hazard to the highway yet. Backcountry users should use increasing caution at tree line and above. The hazard will probably increase by early next week.