Dangerous avalanche conditions exist. The snowpack is underlain by weak snow layers. It is especially dangerous above an elevation of 9,000 feet where large human triggered slab avalanches are likely on steep avalanche prone slopes. The possibility of these paths releasing naturally will increase throughout the day. Wind slabs also present a hazard at all elevations. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended.
Wind slabs formed by strong southwest winds could be human triggered in steep wind loaded avalanche starting zones. These slabs could have depths to three feet at higher elevations and one foot at lower elevations. They will increase in size and sensitivity as the day progresses.
Deep slabs lie upon a hard October rain crust and a persistent weak layer. These very dangerous slides could be triggered by the weight of a person with depths to four feet or could release naturally as they are loaded by new snow today. If involved with one of these large slides, survival is unlikely.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )The strong storm system is to bring heavy snowfall during the day with highs in the mountains reaching the mid-twenties and the valleys reaching near thirty degrees. Ridgetop winds are to be from the southwest with 20-30 mph averages. By 5pm over a foot of new snow is expected. The general avalanche hazard will increase to HIGH on Wednesday. Large and dangerous avalanches could release naturally or by the weight of a single person on west, north, and east aspects at higher elevations. Wind slabs could also be triggered with one to three foot depths in wind loaded areas. The avalanche hazard will increase as the day progresses. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended during periods of high hazard.
