Strong winds are forming stiff new wind slabs. These slabs are expected to be more widely distributed, larger and easier to trigger at the higher elevations. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully; identify areas of concern. Avalanches are unlikely below an elevation of 8,000 feet.
West to southwest winds have formed new wind slabs on leeward aspects. These slabs could be human triggered in steep wind loaded avalanche starting zones and cliff areas with depths to 18 inches.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )A strong cold front will blast through the region overnight and bring a period of heavy snow shower activity. New snow accumulations of 3 to 7 inches are possible by daybreak. Temperatures will be much cooler behind the front. On Monday skies will be cloudy. Snow showers are likely and are anticipated to bring another three inches of new snow to the region during the day. The strong winds will back towards the west and continue at speeds of 25 to 35 with gusts to 45 miles per hour. Temperatures will be in the single digits and teens.The strong winds and new snow will increase the hazard as newly formed wind slabs gain depth and volume. These slabs are likely to be easily triggered by humans, especially in steep avalanche prone terrain at the upper elevations. Slabs are expected to 6 to 18 inches deep. The general avalanche hazard could rise to CONSIDERABLE at the upper elevations and is expected to be MODERATE at the mid elevations and be LOW at the lower elevations.
