The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE above 9000 feet. Snowfall and wind during the past week have formed slabs that could be triggered in steep avalanche terrain. Avalanches are unlikely at lower elevations today.
Slabs lie in the backcountry at the high elevations. These hard slabs could have depths from one to four feet. Larger slabs are most likely to be found on northwest to east terrrain and may take heavier triggers such as snow machines to initiate.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )The next storm is to bring snowfall to the region starting after midnight tonight. At sunrise, accumulations could be light however moderate to heavy snowfall is expected to continue into Sunday morning. Temperatures are to cool during this system with mountain highs in the mid twenties expected on Saturday and the mid teens on Sunday. Strong southwest winds are expected to have 30-35 mph averages. The combination of significant snowfall, strong winds, and slick sliding surfaces will result in the avalanche hazard increasing during the day. By the afternoon the general avalanche hazard could be Considerable above 9000 feet and Moderate below that elevation. Hazard will mostly involve the new snow so the timing and amount of precipitation will greatly impact this hazard. Check the morning advisories for updated conditions.
