The general avalanche hazard is LOW this morning. If snowfall continues throughout the day, the hazard could increase to MODERATE in the afternoon as shallow pockets of wind slab form in leeward terrain near ridgelines above 9,000 feet. Skiers and riders could trigger these new slabs, along with shallow loose snow sluffs in very steep, wind loaded terrain. Monitor the buildup of these slabs and avoid very steep, avalanche prone slopes with obvious signs of wind loading, especially if these areas have high consequence terrain below. Under 9,000 feet, the chance for avalanche activity will quickly diminish with a drop in elevation.
As the day progresses, pockets of wind slab up to a foot deep could develop in leeward terrain above 9,000 feet if snowfall continues throughout the day. These slabs are forming upon a variety of old snow surfaces which include light density snow, near surface facets, surface hoar and crusts.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )The chance for new snow will begin to increase in the early morning hours of Saturday as a low pressure trough and associated cold front move into the region. Light to moderate snowfall will continue through the day before tapering off by midnight. Overnight lows in the mountains will be in the mid-teens before rising to near 20 during the day. Westerly ridgetop winds will veer to the northwest at 15 to 25 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard above 9,000 feet is expected to be LOW Saturday morning. If significant snowfall materializes throughout the day, the hazard could increase to MODERATE in the afternoon as small pockets of wind slab develop near ridgelines. Monitor the buildup of these slabs, and avoid steep, avalanche prone slopes with obvious signs of wind loading, especially if these areas have high consequence terrain below. Under 9,000 feet, the chance for avalanche activity will quickly diminish with a drop in elevation.
