Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

The general avalanche hazard is CONSIDERABLE. Strong southwest winds have formed new soft slabs up to three feet in depth. These slabs lie upon light density snow that fell earlier in the week and weak layers of faceted snow and hard crusts. Snowmobilers and skiers who venture onto steep slopes could trigger these dangerous slabs.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )The ongoing snowfall is expected to remain heavy through the late evening hours. As the night progresses temperatures at 10,000 feet will drop into the upper single digits. On Friday snow and wind will taper down during the early morning hours. Light snow will persist into the afternoon; temperatures at 10,000 feet will remain in the upper single digits. Ridge crest winds will be northwesterly at 15 to 20 miles per hour.The avalanche warning issued for Thursday will expire tonight. The general avalanche hazard for Friday is expected to be CONSIDERABLE above 7,500 feet. Dangerous slab avalanches up to five feet in depth could be human triggered or release spontaneously. Below 7,500 feet the general avalanche hazard is expected to be LOW. Excellent avalanche skills are necessary for safe travel in avalanche prone terrain.