At the mid and upper elevations, skiers and riders could trigger recently developed wind slabs in steep, wind loaded terrain. Warming temperatures may increase the sensitivity of these slabs to human triggers on sunlit aspects in the afternoon. On northerly aspects above 9,000 feet, these surface slabs also have the potential to step down and release deep persistent slabs failing near the ground. More substantial triggers, such as snowmobiles or large groups, may be needed to directly trigger these deep persistent slabs. Avalanches are unlikely at the lower elevations.
Above 7,500 feet, recently developed wind slabs lie upon a variety of sliding surfaces which include near surface facets, surface hoar, sun crusts and wind pack. Backcountry travelers could trigger these slabs to depths of one to three feet in steep, wind loaded terrain.
Weak, faceted snow exists at the base of the snow pack on shaded aspects above 9,000 feet. Some potential remains for backcountry travelers, especially those on snowmobiles, to trigger dangerous, full depth hard slab avalanches on this persistent weak layer. Previous tracks should not be interpreted as a sign of stability.
Cloud cover will increase during the day ahead of a weak cold front and associated disturbance which will bring a chance for light, scattered snow showers in the afternoon. Overnight lows in the mountains will be near 10 before rising into the upper teens during the day. Westerly ridgetop winds will range from 15 to 25 miles per hour.Above 7,500 feet, the general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE on Friday. Backcountry travelers venturing into steep, wind loaded terrain might be able to trigger recently developed wind slabs one to three feet in depth. These slabs lie upon a variety of sliding surfaces and weak layers including suncrusts, wind pack, near surface facets and surface hoar. On steep, northerly aspects above 9,000 feet, these slabs might be able to step down to weak, faceted snow near the base of the snowpack. Large triggers, such as snowmobiles or big groups, may be needed to directly trigger these deep persistent slabs. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be LOW below 7,500 and avalanches are unlikely.
