Above 9,000 feet, where winds and new snow, from the previous 24 hours, have formed into dense wind slabs on wind-loaded terrain features, skiers and riders could trigger slab avalanches 1 to 2 feet in depth on steep, avalanche-prone terrain. Yesterday afternoon, backcountry travelers triggered a wind slab avalanche in Granite Canyon. Similar events could be possible today, although due to the colder temperatures, these slabs may have become more difficult to trigger. In most areas below 9,000 feet, avalanches are unlikely.
On steep leeward slopes, strong winds, from the previous 48 hours, transported snow and formed wind slabs. These slabs could be found on any steep, wind-loaded terrain feature, but are most likely to be located at the upper elevations on northerly to easterly aspects. To travel with caution avoid wind-loaded features and avalanche-prone slopes.
The weather pattern will remain dry and cool through the weekend. Temperatures will fall into the single digits overnight and rise into the 20s during the day. Westerly winds will be light at 5 to 10 miles per hour.The snowpack is mostly stable. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be low. Avalanche hazards are limited to isolated terrain features at the highest elevations. In extreme terrain like very steep gullies, chutes, couloirs and cliffs isolated areas of unstable snow can have severe consequences.
