Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

The General Avalanche Hazard is MODERTE. New snow and strong winds forecasted for the day will rapidly build easily triggered slabs on lee and cross loaded slopes. The new snow will sit on weak, faceted surfaces from the Thanksgivng dry spell. Under the facets is light density snow over firm, dense snow that will make a good running surface for new slides. Also, above 9,000 feet, backcountry travelers could trigger isolated pockets of older slabs to a foot in depth in very steep, north facing starting zones that lie upon weak, old-snow surfaces. Slopes lack sufficient snow coverage for avalanche activity below 9,000 feet.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )High level clouds and cooler air will move into the region Monday night ahead of a weather system that will impact the area by Tuesday afternoon. Tuesday will be windy as the storm system arrives. Light snow by early Tuesday morning will increase in intensity during the day then taper by late night. Mountain winds will be from the southwest at 35 to 40 miles per hour with higher gusts. Daytime highs will reach only the upper teens. Mountain snowfall totals are forecasted in the 4 to 7 inch range. The General Avalanche Hazard is expected to increase to Moderate or higher. The new snow will be driven by strong winds and rapidly build sensitive slabs on lee slopes. The new snow will fall on weak, faceted snow that has developed on light density snow from the Thanksgiving period. Under the light density snow is a firm, dense layer from the earlier warm storms that will provide a good surface for slides. Backcountry travelers should watch rapidly changing conditions carefully and be prepared to alter plans as needed.