The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE above an elevation of 9,000 feet. Faceted snow at the base of the snowpack continues to be a persistent weak layer on northerly and shaded aspects above an elevation of 9,000 feet. Steep slopes where this faceted snow exists at the base of the snowpack have been the venue for two recent accidents that resulted in serious injuries and should continue to be considered dangerous. The general avalanche hazard is LOW below 9,000 feet where avalanches are unlikely.
Skiers and riders could trigger persistent slabs up to two feet in depth on steep, northerly aspects above an elevation of 9,000 feet. These slabs lie upon a mid-October drought surface that is comprised of faceted snow. Thin areas of these slabs may be potential trigger points and previous tracks on these slopes may not be an indication of stability.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Mostly cloudy skies with periods of mountain snow showers or flurries. Daytime highs will rise into the 30s and 40s. Winds will be west at 15 to 20 and increase with gusts to 30 miles per hour late in the day.At the upper elevations (above an elevation of 9,000 feet) unstable slabs up to 30 inches deep lie upon a persistent weak layer on steep north facing terrain. These slabs can be triggered by the weight of a single person; however existing tracks on a suspect slope may not be an indication of stability. Areas were this instability is prevalent have faceted snow that formed in October at the base of the snowpack. Avalanches are unlikely below an elevation of 9,000 feet. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE at the upper elevations and LOW at the mid and lower elevations.
