The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE above an elevation of 9,000 feet and LOW below that elevation. Weak faceted snow exist at the base of the snowpack on northerly aspects above an elevation of 9,000 feet. This buried layer is a persistent weakness that could be a bed surface for human triggered avalanches. Todays west winds, new snow and warming temperatures will increase the sensitivity of existing slabs to human triggers. Avalanche are unlikely below an elevation of 9,000 feet.
Humans who venture into steep, north facing avalanche terrain above an elevation of 9,000 feet could trigger pockets of slab up to two feet in depth. Obstacles associated with shallow snow depths increase the consequences of injury if a person triggers one of these slabs.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Limited moisture will continue to move into the region in a westerly flow. A couple inches of additional snowfall is possible at the higher elevation overnight and into the morning hours. Skies are expected to be partly cloudy in the afternoon. Temperatures at 9,000 will rise into the mid 20s. West winds will increase. Speeds of 15 to 25 with gusts to near 40 miles per hour are forecast along higher exposed ridges.At the upper elevation some potential will persist for humans to trigger pockets of slab up to two feet in depth in very steep north facing avalanche terrain. In addition west winds will begin to form isolated pockets of new soft slab up to eight inches in depth in some leeward avalanche starting zones. Avalanches are unlikely at the mid and lower elevations and on south facing terrain at the upper elevations. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE above an elevation of 9,000 feet and LOW below that elevation.
