Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE and will be on the increase. At the higher elevations southwest winds have formed pockets of soft surface slab one to two feet deep on leeward aspects. These slabs could be triggered by riders who venture into steep, wind loaded avalanche starting zones. At the lower elevations rain and warm temperatures present the potential for wet slides to occur in steep active avalanche paths and on steep banks and road cuts. Careful snowpack and terrain analysis is warranted.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )A major storm system is poised to blast into the region tonight, continue through the day on Wednesday and possibly into Thursday. Snowfall will quickly move into the area overnight and be accompanied by strong southwest winds. Up to six inches of new snow could accumulate by day break. On Wednesday skies will be cloudy with continued snowfall and decreasing southwest winds. Temperatures will rise into the upper 20s in the mountains and into the 30s in the valleys.The general avalanche hazard is expected to increase to MODERATE by the early morning hours and will likely continue to increase during the day. New surface slabs will form and build in depth and volume as the day progresses. Slab depths are expected to be in the 12 to 18 inch depth range early and increase to two feet later in the day. Rapid loading on slick old snow surfaces will make these new slabs sensitive to human triggers. An increase in the hazard to CONSIDERABLE is possible.