The general avalanche hazard is CONSIDERABLE above an elevation of 7,000 feet and LOW below that elevation. DANGEROUS unstable slabs formed by westerly winds exist. These slabs will be most sensitive to larger loads such as snow machines yet could be triggered by weight of a single skier or rider when a thin, weak spot of the snowpack is hit. The consequences of being caught in a large slide could be fatal. Expert route finding skills and conservative terrain decisions are essential for safe travel in avalanche terrain.
Dense surface slabs one to four feet in depth lie upon slick old snow surfaces and faceted snow. These dangerous slabs could be triggered snowmobiles or by individual skiers or riders. On steep northerly aspects above 9,000 feet these slabs could step down to the ground.
Above 9000 feet in steep northerly aspects, weak snow persists at the base of the snowpack. In this terrain very dangerous hard slabs could be triggered by the weight of a single person, a snowmobile or by the release of a wind slab avalanche. These dangerous slabs will step down to the ground and could have total crown depths to five feet.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Thursday looks to be mostly clear with continued cold temperatures. At upper elevations morning temperatures near twenty below zero are possible.The general avalanche hazard is expected to remain Considerable above 7000 feet. Although some strengthening of the snowpack has occurred it will still be possible for backcountry travelers to trigger dangerous slab avalanches with depths to five feet.
