At the upper elevations, backcountry travelers could trigger small to large wind slabs in very steep, wind loaded terrain. Daytime warming may increase the likelihood of triggering these slabs and bring about the possibility of shallow wet slides. Any unexpected periods of sunshine should initiate a conversation about travel through or below sunlit, avalanche terrain. At the mid and lower elevations, the snowpack is mostly stable during the cool, morning hours. As the day progresses, warming temperatures and possible sunshine could increase the chance for small wet slides in isolated areas.
Skiers and riders venturing into very steep, avalanche-prone terrain above 9,000 feet could trigger recently developed wind slabs up to two feet in depth. Daytime warming could increase the likelihood of triggering these slides. Monitor temperatures and be prepared to move to shaded terrain if any extended periods of sunshine occur.
Northwesterly flow aloft will bring Pacific disturbances over the region tonight and through the day on Saturday producing periods of light to moderate intensity snowfall. Overnight lows in the mountains will drop to near 20 before rising into the upper 20s in the afternoon. Westerly ridgetop winds will range from 25 to 40 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard is expected to be Moderate above 9,000 feet on Saturday. Strong ridgetop winds and snowfall will continue to load upper elevation starting zones, and backcountry travelers could trigger wind slabs up to two feet in depth on steep, avalanche-prone slopes. Remember, even small slides have the potential to cause serious harm in steep, exposed terrain. Below 9,000 feet, the emerging springtime snowpack is mostly stable. However, be on the lookout for wind-loaded terrain features in very steep terrain in the upper portion of this elevation band.
