Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE this morning and will increase during the day as sunshine and warm temperatures heat the upper portion of the snowpack. Areas of deep slab instability persist in steep, avalanche-prone terrain. Skiers or riders could cross these dangerous hard slabs, which could be up to six feet deep, multiple times before a weak zone is encountered, causing failure of the slope. Snowmobilers choosing to high mark steep bowls and cirques are particularly at risk because they impact the snowpack more deeply and cover a much greater amount of terrain. As the day progresses, surface wet slides will also become possible on steep, sun-affected aspects. Backcountry travelers should evaluate the snow and terrain carefully and use good travel habits.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Similar weather conditions are expected on Tuesday with strong temperature inversions and mostly clear skies. Mountain highs will be near 40 as the valley climbs into the low 20s. Ridgetop winds, at 10 to 20 miles per hour, are expected to veer through the south and end up westerly by noon on Tuesday. On Tuesday, the general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE and will increase during the day as sunshine and warm temperatures heat the upper portion of the snowpack. Areas of deep slab instability persist in steep, avalanche-prone terrain. Skiers or riders could cross these dangerous hard slabs, which could be up to six feet deep, multiple times before a weak zone is encountered, causing failure of the slope. Snowmobilers high marking steep bowls and cirques are particularly at risk. During the afternoon hours, wet slide activity will also become possible on steep, sunlit aspects. Conservative decision making, good travel habits, and the ability to resist peer pressure are all important for safe travel in avalanche terrain on Tuesday.