Human triggered avalanches continue to be possible at the upper elevations where yesterday's new snow and strong winds have formed pockets of wind slab in steep leeward terrain, particularly near summits, ridge crests and cliffy terrain. Avoid these areas even though they may seem attractive as they are connected to longer runs or appear to have good snow quality or deeper powder. Be responsible and use extra restraint with decision making so as to not burden rescue, EMS, or health care systems at this time. At the mid and low elevations, overnight freezing has hardened the snow surface and the avalanche danger is low this morning. As the snowpack is warmed by both increasing temperatures and direct sunlight, wet slide activity will become possible at all elevations but will be most likely at elevations above 8000 feet where it will only involve recent snow.
Soft slabs with up to two foot depths lie in steep wind loaded terrain above 9000 feet. The likelihood of triggering these slabs will increase this afternoon.
Cloud cover is move easterly overnight and by noon on Wednesday clear skies are expected. This clearing will allow for slightly cooler overnight temperatures. However, the clear skies during the day and the light northwest to north winds that are to have averages near ten miles per hour will quickly allow air temperature to reach into the thirties even on summits, while valleys reach into the fifties. Although the avalanche danger will be Low in the early morning, the danger will increase during the day. Above 9000 feet, recent wind slabs could be human triggered and will increase in sensitivity before noon. As the day progresses, wet slide activity will become possible at all elevations although it is only likely to involve recently fallen surface snow above 8500 feet. During the COVID-19 crisis everyone is encouraged to stay out of known avalanche paths, particularly steep starting zones.
