The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE. At higher elevations, the potential continues to trigger wind slabs in steep avalanche terrain. Warm temperatures today could also allow for wet slides to occur, particularly during this afternoon.
Slabs formed from strong winds during the week could be triggered today. These slabs could be hard and are more likely to fail with larger triggers such as snow machines or multiple people on a slope at one time. Slab depths of up to three feet are possible.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Friday looks to be partly cloudy in the morning with increasing clouds bringing the chance for snow back to the area Friday night. Temperatures are to be slightly cooler but still warm with above freezing high temperatures expected in most mountain locations with the exception of terrain above 10,000 feet. The general avalanche hazard will be Moderate above 9000 feet and low below that elevation. New and recently formed wind slabs could be triggered at high elevations. Currently forming slabs to one foot could be triggered and some potential will remain to trigger larger slabs to three or four feet very steep terrain. At lower elevations avalanches will be unlikely except for in isolated pockets and the possibility for small wet slides could develop as conditions warm.
