Skiers and riders venturing into steep terrain could trigger small to large persistent slab avalanches above 8,000 feet. Large triggers, such as snowmobiles, may be more likely to initiate one of these slides. When evaluating the snowpack, continue to be skeptical of the faceted snow from November, and don’t let previous tracks lure you into compromising terrain. Avalanche activity is unlikely in the shallow snowpack below 8,000 feet.
The possibility remains for backcountry travelers to trigger persistent slab avalanches up to two feet deep in steep terrain above 8,000 feet. These slabs rest upon buried surface hoar and faceted snow, and sun crusts are present in some locations just above the faceted snow.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )After a few lingering snow showers Saturday evening, skies are expected to clear overnight with temperature inversions redeveloping. Nighttime lows in the mountains will be in the single digits before climbing into the mid-20s in the afternoon. Westerly to northwesterly ridgetop winds will range from 10 to 20 miles per hour.Above 7,500 feet, the general avalanche hazard is expected to remain Moderate on Sunday. Skiers and riders venturing into steep terrain could trigger persistent slab avalanches up to 30 inches in depth. Large triggers, such as snowmobiles, may be more likely to initiate one of these slides. When evaluating the snowpack, continue to be skeptical of the faceted snow from November, and don’t let previous tracks lure you into compromising terrain. Avalanche activity is unlikely in the shallow snowpack below 7,500 feet.
