SUMMER HAS ARRIVED IN THE MOUNTAINS-ROCKFALL HAZARD ON LOWER SADDLE APPROACH-JULY 4, 2022

 Lower Saddle Approach from the lower moraine camping zone

A significant rockfall event occurred on the afternoon of July 3rd in the area of the fixed line on the approach to the lower saddle, nearly 40 mins of continuous rockfall was observed.   Warm temps have contributed to significant snow melt in the last week and the slope above the fixed line is saturated which has loosed the rocks and dirt on that slope.  The coming days will be telling as to whether this is an isolated event or there will be continued instability on this slope.  Extreme caution is advised when traveling in this area, many climbers and guides are choosing to avoid the area for the next couple days.  Moving through this area quickly and avoiding it during the heat of the day is advised.