Strong west winds this morning will continue to form wind slabs on leeward slopes above 8,000 feet. These wind slab avalanches could be triggered by humans and entrain loose snow increasing in volume. If caught, these small slides could have significant hazards, especially in cliff areas, steep chutes, and terrain traps. Evaluate terrain carefully noting areas of loading and features of concern. At the lower elevations, below 8,000 feet, small avalanches up to a foot in depth could be human triggered on isolated terrain features.
Slabs formed by strong winds and snowfall during the past week can be triggered in steep terrain above 8,000 feet. As the winds switch direction, from the northwest yesterday to west-southwest today, slopes may be cross-loaded and newly formed wind slabs could be found on a variety of aspects. These slabs could be up to 3 feet in depth. Be wary of wind drifted snow above cliffs and in couloirs.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )As a northerly flow brings a quick-moving weather system to the region, clouds will develop overnight and light snowfall will begin in the morning. By Friday evening, snowfall amounts in the mountains could be 2 to 5 inches. In the morning, winds will increase and back to the southwest. Strong winds are expected through the day tomorrow and ridgetop gusts could be 50 to 60 miles per hour. At the upper elevations, the avalanche hazard is moderate. Tomorrow, sustained winds and new snow will form wind slabs on leeward slopes and along ridges. Humans could trigger wind slab avalanches 1 to 3 feet in depth, and these avalanches could entrain loose snow increasing in volume. Signs of shooting cracks indicate winds slabs are present and avalanche terrain should be avoided, especially around terrain traps like gullies and cliffs. The general avalanche hazard is low below an elevation of 8,000 feet.
