Below 7,500 feet, overnight temperatures were at or near freezing. These conditions have caused areas of the snowpack with faceted snow grains to become less stable, and in very steep, avalanche-prone terrain, isolated slabs 1 to 2 feet in depth may be human triggered. Above 7,500 feet, deep persistent slab avalanches remain a concern. Although these slabs are becoming increasingly more stubborn, if they are triggered the consequences will be severe. These slabs will most likely be triggered by a larger load, like a snow machine, or when a thin spot in the slab is crossed. Backcountry travelers also may be able to trigger an isolated pocket of wind slab on leeward slopes above 9,000 feet.
Persistent weak layers of faceted snow that formed during extended dry periods in November and December continue to be a significant threat to backcountry travelers. Above 7,500 feet, these slabs could be triggered with depths ranging from four to seven feet.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Light snowfall overnight and into tomorrow is expected to bring 2 to 4 inches in the mountains and an inch in the valleys. Winds will continue to be light out of the south to the west with moderate gusts along ridgetops. Snowfall will lessen tomorrow as clouds thin. For Saturday, the general avalanche hazard above 7,500 feet will be moderate. The persistent deep slab problem continues to remain a concern. Although these slabs are becoming increasingly more stubborn, if they are triggered the consequences will be severe. These slabs will most likely be triggered by a larger load, like a snow machine, or when a thin spot in the slab is crossed. Backcountry travelers might be able to trigger an isolated pocket of wind slab on leeward slopes above 9,000 feet. Mostly stable snow exists below 7,500 feet.
