Strong southwest winds this morning will continue to form wind slabs on leeward slopes above 8,500 feet, where the avalanche hazard is moderate. Below this elevation, the avalanche hazard is low and small slab avalanches may be found in isolated terrain features. These wind slab avalanches could be triggered by humans and entrain loose snow increasing in volume. If caught, these small slides could have significant hazards, especially in cliff areas, steep chutes, and terrain traps. Evaluate terrain carefully noting areas of loading and features of concern. Deep persistent slab avalanches are unlikely, except in isolated terrain features. These avalanches would require a large trigger on a thin spot of the slab or an area where the snowpack is both shallow and underlain by weak snow.
Slabs formed by strong winds and snowfall during the past week can be triggered in steep terrain above 8,500 feet. As the winds switch direction, from the northwest yesterday to southwest today, slopes may be cross-loaded and newly formed wind slabs could be found on a variety of aspects. These slabs could be up to 3 feet in depth. Be wary of wind drifted snow above cliffs and in couloirs.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )As a northerly flow brings a quick-moving weather system to the region, clouds will develop overnight and light snowfall will begin in the morning. By Friday evening, snowfall amounts in the mountains could be 2 to 5 inches. In the morning, winds will increase and back to the southwest. Strong winds are expected through the day tomorrow and ridgetop gusts could be 50 to 60 miles per hour. At the upper elevations, the avalanche hazard is moderate. Tomorrow, sustained winds and new snow will form wind slabs on leeward slopes and along ridges. Humans could trigger wind slab avalanches 1 to 3 feet in depth, and these avalanches could entrain loose snow increasing in volume. Signs of shooting cracks indicate winds slabs are present and avalanche terrain should be avoided, especially around terrain traps like gullies and cliffs. The general avalanche hazard is low below an elevation of 8,000 feet.
