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We're expecting a weekend with some cloud, possible light snow, but no big changes. Recently, full depth natural avalanches have been spotted, caused by a weak layer at the base of the snowpack. You could trigger this layer if you find a shallow spot or start a wind slab above it. Overnight wind on Friday night keeps the possibility of windslabs alive. Warming and settling at lower elevations plus a thinner weak layer at the ground, means that there is less danger below about 2500m.
Size 3 deep slab on E face of Sadzele (just below the top lift station) at around 3250 m - 40 degree steep start zone, 1.5 m. deep, 50 m. wide, 150 m. long
OLD Full-depth natural avalanche was spotted on the peak to the east of Sadzele (Constitution/Dragon peak, backside) - NE slope, start zone at 3100 m.
Date unknown - possibly caused by overnight winds 20/21 Jan. Size 3 natural slide in Milioni valley NW slope at around 2650 m. Looks like it failed on a deeper layer.
OLD Size 3 natural deep slab avalanche on Sadzele main peak N face - 40 degree start zone at 3250. 400 m long. Date unknown.
Size 2 natural slide on Chrdili W face at around 2100 m.
Size 3 natural slab avalanche was spotted on SW slope of so called Kudebi 2 peak to the east of Kudebi peak (2600-2700 m). Caused by wind but probably failed on a deeper layer.
The most recent storm on Jan 19th and 20th brought 50cm+ new snow. The snowpack is around 150cms in many areas. Areas of high-denstity wind-packed snow can be found in the snow pack, as well as a lower-density layer that formed at the surface after the first big storm in January. Thin early-season (November, December) snow has formed a sugary, weak base at ground, around 15 - 30cm thick. This layer is unpredictable since the early snow cover was inconsistent - but it's more likely to cause problems in the high alpine zone on W, N and E slopes. Shooting cracks, whumpfing and rider-triggered avalanches have been reported due to this layer.
Possible light snow on Saturday, cloud and fine breaks over the weekend, Light to moderate SW and S winds, Freezing level rising to 1650m during the days.
At lower elevations when the sun comes out, watch out for loose snow slides on steep slopes. Rocks are still lurking under the snow - launch with caution and check your landing first!