Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

At the higher elevations (above an elevation of 9,000 feet) the general avalanche hazard will INCREASE as the day progress. Strong south to southwest winds will begin to create isolated pockets of new soft slab on leeward aspects. These new slabs may build to depths of 18 inches by evening. They are likely to be easily triggered by humans in steep terrain where they lie upon slick old snow surfaces. Avalanches are not likely in areas below 8,500 feet where the new snow falls upon bare ground.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service. Snow and wind will spread into the region overnight and continue through the day on Friday. Accumulations of five to ten inches can be expected at the highest elevations by Friday evening. The snow will be accompanied by strong southwest winds with gusts over 50 miles per hour over the higher terrain. Areas of blowing snow and reduced visibility are to be expected in the mountains. Temperatures at 9,000 feet will be in the 20s. Pockets of new soft slab will begin to form on leeward aspects at the higher elevations and increase in size and depth as the day progresses. These slabs are not likely to bond well to the slick old snow surfaces. On Friday the general avalanche hazard is expected to INCREASE to MODERATE at the higher elevations. Pockets of soft slab up to 18 inches in depth are likely to be easily triggered by humans and may release naturally in steep avalanche starting zones. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be LOW in terrain where the new snow accumulates on bare ground.