Low hazard does not mean no hazard. At the upper elevations, isolated pockets of unstable snow persist. The snowpack is mostly stable at the mid and lower elevations, and avalanches are unlikely.
Skiers and riders venturing into steep, wind-loaded avalanche terrain above 9,000 feet might still be able to trigger slides with average slab depths up to 18 inches. In areas of heavily drifted snow near ridgelines, crown depths could reach 30 inches.
A Winter Storm Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service beginning midnight on Friday and continuing through Sunday morning. Snowfall is expected to begin late Friday night and intensify as the day progresses on Saturday. Southwesterly to westerly ridgetop winds will increase to 30 to 40 miles per hour by mid-day. Overnight lows in the mountains will be in the upper teens before rising into the mid-20s in the afternoon.The general avalanche hazard is expected to be LOW early Saturday morning, but will quickly increase to MODERATE as new snowfall and strong southwesterly to westerly ridgetop winds combine to create unstable conditions. By Saturday afternoon, CONSIDERABLE avalanche hazard could exist. As new wind slabs build, they will become increasingly sensitive to human triggers. New snow will also add weight to existing weak layers near the base of the snowpack on shaded aspects at the higher elevations. Backcountry travelers venturing into avalanche terrain will need to monitor conditions closely and be willing to alter plans if circumstances warrant.
