The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE. On north facing aspects above 9,000 feet, persistent slabs lie upon weak snow at the base of the snowpack. These slabs could be triggered by backcountry travelers on very steep, avalanche-prone slopes. Skiers and riders might still be able to trigger surface slab avalanches which have the potential to step down and cause failure of the basal weak layer below. The general avalanche hazard is LOW below 9,000 feet and avalanches are unlikely.
Weak, faceted snow persists at the base of the snow pack on northerly and shaded aspects above 9,000 feet. Skiers and riders have the potential to trigger slab avalanches on this layer with depths to three feet. The strength of this layer is hard to predict and failure may occur after a slope has been crossed several times.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Expect partly cloudy skies on Friday. Overnight lows in the mountains will be near 20 before rising to around 30 during the day. Westerly ridgetop winds will range from 10 to 20 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE on Friday above 9,000 feet. In north facing or shaded terrain above 9,000 feet, backcountry travelers could trigger persistent slab avalanches up to three feet in depth on very steep slopes. Below 9,000 feet, the snowpack is mostly stable and avalanches are unlikely.
