Avalanche conditions continue to be dangerous. Widespread instability exists as slabs of cohesive snow lie over persistent weak snow near the base of the snowpack. Although these slabs have become less sensitive, make no mistake, backcountry riders or skiers still have the potential to trigger them and once triggered, these slides are likely to be large and carry severe consequences. Do not allow sunny skies and high holiday traffic compromise good decision making and be sure to evaluate snow and terrain carefully.
The chance to trigger slabs avalanches upon weak snow near the base of the snowpack persists. At the higher elevations, this instability exists on all aspects where these slabs could have depths to four feet. A single person could still cause release of these dangerous avalanches and slopes could fail after having been tracked by several skiers or riders.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Dry and clear conditions are in store for Friday as high pressure builds over the area and inversion conditions develop. Temperatures will be coldest in the valleys with morning temperatures near twenty below zero. Morning fog and low clouds are likely to develop over the Jackson and Star Valleys. High elevations should start in the single digits and warm into the upper teens. The general avalanche hazard is expected to Moderate. Make no mistake, although the likelihood of triggering has lessened, the weak snow is preserved and large dangerous avalanches could still be triggered by one person who hits a particularly weak spot in the snowpack. These slabs are even more susceptible to failure by larger triggers such as snowmobiles or groups of skiers. Persistent weak layers demand conservative decision making and a wide margin of safety is warranted.
