A few inches of new snow and strong west winds have increased the possibility for skiers and riders to trigger pockets of soft slabs at the mid and high elevations today. These slabs are most prevalent in very steep wind loaded terrain. Also above 7500 feet, the possibility persists for backcountry travelers to trigger deeper slabs that formed during the mid-January storm cycle. Avalanches below 7500 feet are unlikely. Careful snowpack and terrain evaluation is essential today.
Recently developed soft wind slabs six to eighteen inches deep lie in steep, wind-loaded avalanche terrain above 7,500 feet. These slabs will increase in sensitivity today as they are weakened by warming temperatures and direct sunlight this morning and as they are rapidly loaded by new snow late this afternoon.
Slabs lie upon persistent weak snow types and crusts that formed during the dry period between Christmas and early January. These slabs could have depths to three feet and could be soft or hard. Although they have become less likely to initiate, in certain steep terrain features such as steep cliff areas, a slight chance exists for them to be triggered by the weight of a single person.
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the area this afternoon through 5pm Saturday. Snow that will be heavy at times is to continue Saturday afternoon. Southwest winds with 20-30 mph averages will cause blowing and drifting snow. Over a foot is expected in the mountains by Saturday night. Temperatures are to be cooler with highs in the teens. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be rated as Considerable in the early morning hours above 7500 and may increase to High depending on the timing and amount of new snow and wind. New wind slabs will be very sensitive to human triggers and may release naturally. These slabs will increase in size and sensitivity during the day as they are further loaded. Although unlikely, this rapid loading could cause failure of deeper layers in the snowpack to depths of four feet. Below 7500, the hazard will increase at least to Moderate as new storm slabs form over existing snow surfaces.
