Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

Look for unstable snow on steep, wind loaded terrain in upper elevations where small, shallow avalanches are possible to trigger. Otherwise, mostly stable avalanche conditions exist. Practice safe travel habits by only exposing one person at a time in avalanche terrain and avoiding very steep slopes directly above terrain traps.

Low Danger Does Not Mean No Danger

The Salt River and Wyoming ranges received a couple inches of snow over the weekend that was accompanied by enough westerly wind to form shallow, soft wind slabs less than 6 inches deep. These wind slabs were reactive yesterday in adjacent forecast zones on leeward and cross-loaded terrain features above 9,000’. Look for obvious signs of wind loaded slopes including shooting cracks and fresh drifts. Although not large enough to bury a person, these avalanches could knock you off your feet or machine. Remember that low danger does not mean no danger. Stay diligent by identifying avalanche terrain, discussing a plan with your partners, and executing safe travel habits. 

Prior to the slight snowfall over the weekend, the forecast area has been dry for nearly 2 weeks. Weak layers of facets and surface hoar developed on the snow surface during this period. If you are venturing into the backcountry, assess how these weak layers are preserved or not by the new snow. These layers will be worth tracking once the snow starts falling again. Consider submitting an observation to help keep everyone informed on backcountry conditions. We receive very few observations in this zone.