The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE. On north facing aspects above 9,000 feet, persistent slabs lie upon weak snow at the base of the snowpack. These slabs could be triggered by backcountry travelers on very steep, avalanche-prone slopes. The general avalanche hazard is LOW below 9,000 feet and avalanches are unlikely.
Weak, faceted snow persists at the base of the snow pack on northerly and shaded aspects above 9,000 feet. Dense slab avalanches, up to 30 inches in depth, could be triggered by backcountry travelers on this persistent weak layer. Caution is advised as these slabs may fail even if they have been previously crossed by other people.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Expect increasing clouds with a chance of mountain snow flurries as cold air and moisture begin to approach the area from the northwest. Temperatures on Saturday will be in the 20s and winds will be westerly at 15 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard will continue to MODERATE on steep northerly aspects above an elevation of 9,000 feet and LOW below that elevation. Skiers or riders could trigger dense slab avalanches up to three feet in depth in north facing terrain at the upper elevations. Mostly stable snow exists at the mid elevations. Minimal snow depths and areas of bare ground exist at the lower elevations.
