Snowfall densities increased from five percent to ten percent over the last few days, which have created an upside-down snowpack. Backcountry travelers could trigger wind slabs in steep, wind-loaded terrain. In more sheltered areas, loose snow sluffs are also possible. These slides also have the potential to step down to faceted snow near the base of the snowpack above 7,500 feet. As the day warms, these slides could become more susceptible to failure on sunlit aspects if any extended periods of sunshine occur. Evaluate the snowpack and terrain carefully.
Skiers and riders could trigger new and recently developed soft wind slabs on all aspects and elevations. At the higher elevations, these slabs could have depths of one to two feet and fail on old hard surfaces or density breaks within the recent snowfall. Beware of steep terrain with obvious areas of wind loading.
Above 7,500 feet, hard slabs with depths to four feet lie upon persistent weak layers of faceted snow. Since Wednesday night, around one and a half to two inches of snow water equivalent have been added to the snowpack. Large triggers, such as groups of people, may be needed to trigger one of these slides. However, the weight of a single skier or rider could still act as a trigger.The release of a wind slab could also step down to these basal facets. If triggered, these slabs will carry high consequences.
