At the upper elevations pockets of wind slab exist and could be human triggered in steep, wind loaded avalanche starting zones and cliff areas. These slabs could be large enough to injure a person. Shallow loose snow sloughs are also possible in sunlit cliff areas. Carefully assess terrain and the stability of the interface between the recent new snow and the late November crust. Use safe travel techniques. Avalanches are unlikely below an elevation of 9,000 feet. Very little snow exist below an elevation of 7,500 feet.
At the higher elevations wind slabs up to to 18 inches in depth could be triggered by skiers or riders on steep, avalanche prone slopes. These slabs were formed by winds that veered from the southwest to the north. These slabs may become more sensitive to human triggers during the warmest portion of the day.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )In our forecast area the flow over this large high pressure ridge will veer to the north. Skies will be mostly sunny on Wednesday. Temperatures at 10,500 feet will once again drop into the single digits overnight and rise into the teens during the day. Winds will be from the north at 15 to 25 with gusts to 35 miles per hour.Winds slabs at the upper elevations are slowly becoming less reactive to ski cuts in steep avalanche prone slopes. That said pockets of wind slab formed by northwest winds could be triggered by skiers and riders who venture into steep, wind loaded, active avalanche paths. These small slabs are likely to be 6 to 18 inches deep and could be large enough to injure a person. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE at the upper elevations (9,000 to 10,500 feet) and LOW at the mid elevations (7,500 to 9,000 feet). Very little snow exists below an elevation of 7,000 feet.
