Persistent slabs lie upon a base of weak, faceted snow on a variety of aspects above 7,500 feet. New snow and wind will be increasing the load on these dangerous slabs. The potential for these slabs to be human triggered or release naturally will increase during the day with potentially serious consequences.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )The moist westerly flow will continue to bring periods of snow to the region ahead of an abundant stream of moisture. Snowfall tonight is expected to be in the four to six inch range with another three to five inches possible in the favored locations during the day. Temperatures will be in the single digits and teens. Winds will continue to be west-southwest at 25 to 35 with gusts to 40 miles per hour. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be CONSIDERABLE and on the INCREASE overnight and into the day. The potential for large and dangerous human triggered and naturally released avalanches to occur will increase as the day progresses. A significant increase in snowfall intensity and warming conditions are forecast for tomorrow night. If this forecast verifies the avalanche hazard is likely to rise to HIGH.
