Deep persistent slabs continue to be a hazard. A weak layer of faceted snow is deeply buried in the snowpack. Although it’s been a week since any new avalanche activity has occurred on this persistent weak layer it could still produce large slab avalanches. Sunshine and warming temperatures may cause wet loose slides on steep sunlit aspects. Increasing southwest winds may begin to form pockets of wind slab along the leeward aspects of the higher ridge crests. Monitor conditions for increasing hazards associated with an expected warm up and areas of blowing snow.
Deep slab avalanches up to five feet in depth could still be triggered by the weight of a person. The consequences of triggering a deep slab avalanche are likely to be severe. This avalanche hazard problem requires a careful assessment of the snowpack and terrain and conservative terrain choices.
The next system is to bring light snow to the region Thursday morning through Thursday afternoon. Periods of light snow or flurries are to continue Thursday evening. Two to five inches is expected by sunset. Mountain temperatures are to start in the mid-teens with highs in the upper teens. Southwest winds are to have fifteen to twenty mile per hour averages. The general avalanche hazard will be Moderate above 7500. The possibility continues for backcountry skiers or riders to trigger large and dangerous avalanches in steep avalanche prone terrain. Below 7500 feet avalanches are unlikely.
