Mountain temperatures are starting out between 10 and 15 degrees warmer than yesterday morning. Skiers and riders venturing onto very steep, avalanche prone slopes above 9,000 feet could trigger small to large wind slabs. As the day warms, the likelihood of triggering these slabs will increase, and the possibility of wet slides could develop. Warming temperatures will also increase the likelihood of cornice failures. Skies are forecasted to be overcast through the majority of the day. However, if cloud cover dissipates earlier than expected, the threat of both dry slab avalanches and wet slides could significantly increase. Monitor weather conditions, and be willing to come back another day if conditions warrant. Below 9,000 feet, the underlying snowpack beneath the recent snowfall has undergone numerous melt-freeze cycles, and significant avalanche activity is unlikely.
In very steep avalanche terrain above 9,000 feet, the chance for skiers and riders to trigger wind slabs up to 18 inches deep will be on the increase as the day warms, particularly if sunny skies dominate.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Expect overcast skies tonight and through most of the day on Thursday as an upper level low pressure system to the west brings warm, moist Pacific air to the area. Overnight lows in the mountains will be near 20 before rising into the mid-30s in the afternoon. Ridgetop winds will back to the east at 5 to 15 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard is expected to be Moderate above 9,000 feet on Thursday. Mountain temperatures are forecasted to start out between 10 and 15 degrees warmer than Wednesday morning. Skiers and riders venturing into very steep, avalanche prone terrain could trigger wind slabs up to two feet in depth. As the day warms, the likelihood of triggering these slabs will increase, and the possibility of wet slides involving the new snow could develop, particularly if periods of sunshine occur. Monitor weather conditions, and have a plan to transition to cooler terrain if snow surfaces start to become saturated. Below 9,000 feet, significant avalanche activity is unlikely.
