New snow amounts, generally in the 5 to 12 inch range have accumulated across the forecast area. This new snow has deposited on bare ground with minimal avalanche concerns expected. The isolated exception would be near ridgetops where wind drifted snow could have deposited deeper as a wind slab. If you head out into avalanche terrain, take your companion rescue gear (beacon, shovel, probe) just as you would mid winter. There is no reason to leave it behind, even if you are just traveling on foot.

There are some excellent online education opportunities available right now. A great place to start for a basic avalanche knowledge refresher or for the new user is the education section on avalanche.org. The California Avalanche Workshop went virtual this year with several great recorded talks available, targeted at a wide audience. Get out and practice with your companion rescue gear. Now is the time.

The SAC non-profit side of the program is working to adapt education events appropriately for the current times. SAC's schedule of Motorized Rescue, Level 1, and Level 2 courses is posted with info available here. The application process for avalanche course scholarships is open now through Nov 18th. More info on SAC's scholarships for both recreationists and professionals is listed here.