Dangerous avalanche conditions continue. Riders and skiers are likely to trigger slab avalanches in steep terrain at all elevations, with large avalanches possible at the mid and high elevations. Avoid being on or under steep slopes as the weight of a single person can still cause an avalanche to be triggered remotely.
Weak persistent snow layers can be found throughout the Southwest forecast area. Slabs depths could reach up to 3 feet at the higher elevations, while avalanches at the lower elevations are likely to be closer to a foot in depth. Although natural activity is not expected today, slabs could still fail remotely or after a slope has been tracked many times and a weak spot on the slope is impacted.
The snowpack in the Southwest trails area is weak and dangerous. Cold and mostly dry conditions from November 10th through the 26th caused widespread faceting and surface hoar growth. Snow that has fallen since that period sits over that weak snow and continues to be unstable. Sensitive avalanche conditions continue to be reported from the Snake River, Salt, and Greys Ranges. Areas with continued wind loading in the 8500 to 9500 foot elevation seem to have the most loading and activity, however elevations both above and below that range have the same weak snow layers. Riders and skiers are encouraged to avoid being on or under steep terrain. Staying on low angle terrain continues to be the best way to avoid these avalanche conditions. Patience will be needed as the sensitivity of these slabs decreases yet the potential for avalanche release remains real.
