At the lower elevations warm temperatures, sustained rainfall and poor snowpack structure have created very dangerous avalanche conditions. With more rain and even warmer temperatures in the forecast natural wet slides are likely today on steep snow covered slopes and human or wildlife triggered wet slides are very likely. At the mid and upper elevations the hazard will be increasing as new snow, strong westerly winds and increasing temperatures combine to create dangerous conditions. Large, destructive slab avalanches have occurred and are likely to be triggered by humans or release naturally today. An Avalanche Warning has been issued and TRAVEL IN OR BENEATH AVALANCHE TERRAIN IS NOT RECOMMENDED.
Dense wind slabs formed by westerly winds with depths of one to two feet are likely to human triggered in steep wind loaded avalanche starting zones. These slabs could step down to deeper layers of weak faceted snow in areas with poor snowpack structure and will become more sensitive to human triggers as the day warms.
Buried layers of weak snow persist at all elevations. Slabs that lie upon these weaknesses could be triggered by backcountry riders and skiers today. These slabs could have depths of three to six feet and will be wet in areas affected by rain.
Large wet slides are likely to occur today on steep slopes at the lower elevations. The potential for natural, human triggered and wildlife triggered slides to occur will increase as the day warms. Roof slide are also likely.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )A moist and active weather pattern with some breaks and periods of heavier precipitation will continue. At the lower elevations a rain/snow mix is anticipated to changeover to all snow after midnight. In the mountains up to six inches of new snow accumulation are possible overnight. Skies will be cloudy on Saturday with periods of heavy snowfall in the mountains and periods of rain and/or a rain snow mix at the lower elevations. Temperature are expected to be warmer than today with highs rising into the low 30s in the mountains and into the upper 30s to low 40s in the valleys. Winds will be westerly at 20 to 30 with gusts to 45 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard is anticipated to be CONSIDERABLE at all elevations. Large wet slides are likely to be easily triggered by humans and could release naturally at the lower elevations. Large to very large slab avalanches continue to be a significant threat at the mid and upper elevations. These dangerous avalanches could be human triggered or release naturally. A Special Avalanche Bulletin remains in effect until 7 PM on Saturday evening. Expert route finding skills and snowpack assessment knowledge are essential for safe travel in avalanche terrain.
