Dense surface slabs and very dangerous deep hard slabs could be triggered by backcountry travelers on steep slopes. These slabs will become more sensitive to human triggers as temperatures rise and if skies become sunny. The potential for wet slides to be human triggered on steep slopes at the lower elevations will increase after snow surfaces have softened. These conditions warrant a conservative approach to terrain choices.
Soft surface slabs up to 30 inches in depth could be triggered by humans who venture onto avalanche prone slopes. These slabs could step down and trigger dangerous persistent deep slabs in areas with poor snowpack structure.
Dangerous hard slabs, with depths of four to eight feet, could be triggered on steep slopes where persistent layers of weak faceted snow exist within the snowpack. These dangerous slabs could be triggered on slopes that have been crossed multiple times by other riders or skiers.
At the lower elevations, where overnight lows remained above freezing, wet slabs could release naturally. Rain and warming temperatures will increase the likelihood of these slides as the day progresses.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )The westerly flow aloft will gradually veer to the northwest overnight as an upper level disturbance passes through the region. Light snowfall will continue overnight, significantly decrease by morning and end by evening with accumulations of a couple inches possible. On Friday temperatures will warm into the upper 20s at 10,500 feet and into the upper 30s at 6,500 feet. Winds will be southwest at 5 to 15 miles per hour.Very significant avalanche hazard exists at all elevations. Killer deep slabs with depths of 6 to 12 feet and large surface slabs with depths of one to four feet could be easily triggered by the weight of a single person. Very large natural releases are possible. Wet slides are possible at the lower elevations. Failure to respect these conditions could result in death. In these conditions it is best to back off from bold terrain and live to ski or ride another day. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be CONSIDERABLE at all elevations.
