Clear skies overnight allowed snow surfaces to harden, however this morning's temperatures are close freezing and those surfaces will soften early. Areas of unstable snow exist at the higher elevations. Large slab avalanches could still be triggered by skiers or riders who venture into steep avalanche starting zones. Sunshine and warm temperatures will increase the likelihood for humans to trigger these slabs. Due to the warmup wet snow avalanches continue to be a potential hazard on steep sunlit slopes. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully and modify terrain objectives as conditions change. Avalanches are unlikely below an elevation of 8,500 feet.
At the higher elevations daytime warming will increase the chance for skiers and riders to trigger slab avalanches up to two feet in depth on steep, avalanche-prone slopes. Conservative terrain choices are warranted.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )A Pacific low pressure trough and associated cold front will pass through the region on Monday evening and Tuesday. Skies will be mostly clear overnight. Clouds will increase with areas of steady light to moderate snowfall developing by evening. This system will bring 4 to 8 inches of new snow to the mountains by Tuesday evening. On Monday southerly winds will become strong with gusts to 55 miles per hour. Temperatures will rise in to the mid-30s on the summits and to near 50 in the valleys. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE above an elevation of 8,000 feet. Areas of unstable snow exist at the higher elevations. Strong southerly winds will impact exposed slopes and ridges. Skiers and riders could trigger large slab avalanches 1 to 3 feet deep in steep avalanche starting zones. The sensitivity of these slabs to human triggers will increase as the day warms. Avalanches are unlikely below an elevation of 8,000 feet where the hazard is expected to be LOW. Tomorrow is a day when conditions can change quickly. Rain showers, warm temperatures and areas of blowing snow are likely to be encountered. Continually reassess conditions and modify travel plans accordingly.
