Very large, deep hard slab avalanches continue to be a potential hazard in steep, north facing terrain above 9,000 feet. A chance also persists for humans to trigger isolated pockets of wind slab in very steep, avalanche prone slopes. Evaluate the snowpack and terrain carefully, and identify features of concern.
Deep hard slabs continue to have potential to be human triggered above an elevation of 9,000 feet in steep north facing avalanche paths. If triggered these dangerous slabs could involve the full depth of the snowpack. These deep slabs are more likely to fail under larger triggers such as snowmobiles, large cornice drops and groups of people.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Moderate to heavy snowfall is forecast to become widespread tonight and continue into the day. This flow should once again favor southern areas of our forecast region. New snow accumulations of 6 to 18 inches are possible during the next 24 hours. Stronger southwest winds will accompany the snowfall. Temperatures will remain in the teens and 20s.The new snow and wind will increase the avalanche hazard. New soft slabs will increase in size and distribution and are expected to continue to be very sensitive to human triggers. The general avalanche is expected to increase to CONSIDERABLE in the Southwest Trails forecast area where new snowfall totals are expected to exceed a foot. The hazard is expected to be MODERATE in areas that receive lesser amounts of new snow overnight.
