Skiers and riders might be able to trigger a pocket of surface slab in very steep, wind-loaded terrain above 9,000 feet. The primary threat to backcountry travelers above 7,500 feet remains persistent deep slabs. Large triggers, such as snowmobiles or the release of a surface slab, are more likely to be able to impact this deeply buried weak layer. However, the weight of a single person could still trigger one of these very dangerous slabs if a shallow weak zone is encountered. With these conditions in mind, be wary of bold terrain choices, and don’t let blue skies impair your judgment. Avalanche activity is unlikely in most areas below 7,500 feet.
Persistent deep slab avalanches in excess of five feet continue to pose a threat to backcountry travelers on a variety of aspects at the mid and upper elevations. While the likelihood of triggering these slabs is once again on a decreasing trend, the consequences of being caught remain severe.
Northwesterly flow aloft will back to the west over the day on Sunday, and cloud cover will begin to increase in the afternoon. Overnight lows in the mountains will be in the low single digits before rising into the upper teens during the day. Northwesterly ridgetop winds will back to the southwest and increase to 15 to 25 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE above 7,500 feet on Sunday. Up there, persistent deep slab avalanches, which could exceed five feet in depth, remain the primary concern. While the likelihood of triggering these slabs is once again on a decreasing trend, the consequences of being caught remain severe. Skiers and riders could also trigger surface slabs in very steep terrain at the higher elevations. Below 7,500 feet, avalanche activity is unlikely in most areas.
