Strong winds and dense snow have created dangerous avalanche conditions. On steep avalanche prone slopes at the higher elevations (above an elevation of 9,000 feet) large slab avalanches could be triggered by humans or release naturally, especially if the sun appears. Temperatures remained mostly above or near freezing at the lower elevations. Wet snow avalanche hazards are a potential hazard on steep terrain features at the lower elevations. Wet snow avalanche hazards could also be a threat at the higher elevations as temperatures increase and especially if the clouds break and the sun comes out. Expert terrain and snowpack evaluation skills are essential for safe travel in avalanche terrain.
At the higher elevations dense slab avalanches could release naturally or be triggered by skiers or riders. These slabs could be one to two feet deep. Conservative terrain choices and a cautious approach to avalanche terrain and run out zones are warranted.
Wet loose and wet slab avalanches are possible on steep terrain features. The potential for wet slides to occur on steep slopes will increase as the day warms and could rapidly increase on steep sunlit slopes. These wet slides could gouge down to the ground in areas where the snowpack is isothemal.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Light snowfall will occur overnight and increase into tomorrow with 3 to 6 inches possible in the mountains and a trace to an inch in the valleys. The temperature will remain warm with mountains in the 20s and 30s and valleys at or above freezing. Southwesterly winds will be 10 to 20 miles per hour with stronger gusts as a cold front passes the region on Tuesday. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be considerable above 9,000 feet, where dense wind slabs several feet in depth have formed. Below 9,000 feet the hazard will be moderate as the possibility for wet slide still exists.
