The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE above an elevation of 8,500 feet and LOW below that elevation. Recent new snow lies upon a base of faceted old snow that is most developed on steep northerly aspects above an elevation of 9,000 feet. Human triggered slab avalanches are possible at the upper elevations and are more likely on steep, north facing slopes. In isolated areas at the mid elevations; steep, wind loaded avalanche starting zones are also suspect. Avalanches are unlikely at the lower elevations.
Slab avalanches up to two feet in depth could be triggered by humans at the upper elevations and in isolated areas up to 18 inches in depth at the mid elevations. These slabs were originally formed by southwest to west winds, however increasing northerly winds today are expected to drift available snow onto leeward aspects along exposed ridge lines.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )It will be cold with clear skies tonight. Temperatures will be below zero but not as cold as they were several nights ago. On Sunday skies will be mostly sunny with areas of morning valley fog. Morning low temperatures will be inverted, with the coldest valley locations in the negative teens, and in the mountains in the negative single digits. Daytime highs will rise above zero into the single digits and teens. Winds at 10,500 feet will be from the north tonight at 10-20 miles per hour with higher gusts. Daytime winds will decrease to 5-10 miles per hour and back towards the northwest.The general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE at the higher elevations on Sunday and LOW at the mid and lower elevations. Human triggered slab avalanches up to two feet in depth are possible, especially on steep north facing aspects above an elevation of 9,000 feet. Steep wind loaded avalanche starting zones at the mid elevations may also be suspect in isolated areas. Avalanches are unlikely at the lower elevations.
