Skiers and riders that choose to enter major, active avalanche paths where the October rain crust and facet combination is present could trigger very large and dangerous slab avalanches. In steep, wind-loaded terrain above 7,500 feet, backcountry travelers could also trigger small to large winds slabs. These slides, along with loose snow sluffs, have the potential to sweep people over cliff bands or into terrain traps. Make conservative terrain choices and come home to your friends and family this holiday season. At the lower elevations, avalanches are unlikely except in isolated terrain features.
Southerly to southeasterly ridgetop winds combined with four to six inches of new snow to form wind slabs in leeward terrain. Skiers and riders could trigger these slabs, which may involve older snow, to depths up to two feet on steep, wind-loaded slopes. This wind pattern is atypical; expect to find new slabs in unusual places.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Southerly flow will veer to the southwest and eventually to the northwest as an upper level low pressure system tracks across northern Utah and Colorado. By Sunday evening, storm totals could reach 12 to 18 inches in favored locations. Overnight lows in the mountains will be in the low teens and only rise a couple of degrees during the day. Southerly ridgetop winds at 15 to 25 miles per hour will veer to the northwest and decrease to 5 to 15.The avalanche hazard is comprised of both the likelihood of trigger a slide and the consequences of being caught. On Christmas day, the deep persistent slab problem will continue to be a significant concern. Skiers and riders that choose to enter major, active avalanche paths where the October rain crust and facet combination is present could trigger very large and dangerous slab avalanches to depths of six feet. Large triggers, such as snowmobiles, are more likely to be able impact this weak layer. Due to the consequences of these deep, hard slab avalanches, the hazard will remain CONSIDERABLE above 9,000 feet. In steep, wind-loaded avalanche terrain, backcountry travelers could also trigger newly developed wind slabs and loose snow sluffs.
