As the day progresses sunshine and warm temperatures will increase the hazard on steep slopes. Wet loose slides are possible on steep sunlit slopes. Slab avalanches will become increasingly sensitive to human triggers. Deep slab avalanches continue to be an unlikely but possible threat for snowmobilers who climb steep avalanche prone slopes. Monitor conditions and be prepared to move to cooler aspects and off of and out from under steep terrain during the warmer portion of the day. Avalanches are unlikely below an elevation of 8,000 feet.
At the higher elevations slab avalanches could be triggered by skiers or riders in steep avalanche prone terrain. These slabs could be one to two feet deep. Sunshine and warm temperatures are expected to increase the sensitivity of these slabs to human triggers.
Although the likelihood of triggering a deep hard slab avalanche is limited, the consequences remain severe. These dangerous hard slab avalanches could be three to five feet deep and are most likely to be triggered by a snowmachine. Previous tracks may not be an indication of stability.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Mainly dry conditions and partly cloudy skies are expected through Tuesday. Temperatures will fall into the single digits and teens overnight. Winds will continue to be northwesterly at 5 to 15 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE above an elevation of 8,000 feet. At the higher elevation some potential remains for skiers and riders to trigger soft slab avalanches with depths to two feet. Sunshine will increase the hazard on steep slopes as the day warms. Monitor conditions and be prepared to move to cooler aspects during the warmest portions of the day. Avalanches are unlikely below an elevation of 8,000 feet where the general avalanche hazard will be LOW.
