Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE above an elevation of 8,500 feet and LOW below this elevation. Soft slabs to eighteen inches in depth that were formed by recent snow and strong winds could be human triggered in steep terrain, particularly near ridge crests and cliff areas. Today's storm will increase the size and sensitivity of these slabs as well as provide for the possibility of loose snow sluffs.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Snow is to develop overnight and continue through Sunday. At higher elevations, over five inches of snow could fall during this time. Mountain temperatures are to reach into the mid teens during the day and winds are to be Southwesterly at 20-30 mph. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be Low in the morning. The potential will exist for backcountry riders and skiers to trigger isolated pockets of soft slab to eighteen inches in depth in steep wind loaded terrain at the upper elevations. The hazard will rise as new snow and wind increase the size of these slabs and form new shallow surface slabs. Avalanches below 8500 are unlikely.