Triggering slabs in very steep terrain remains possible at upper elevations today. The snowpack has gained strength since the last significant snowfall last week. Below 9,000 avalanches are unlikely except in very isolated areas of steep terrain. Though overall snow depths increased last week, coverage remains shallow. Due to the thin coverage, being carried by an avalanche holds the potential for significant injury. Evaluate terrain and the snowpack carefully and consider the consequences prior to committing to a slope.
Slabs formed by wind transported snow last week lie upon crusts and faceted snow that was buried on December 5th. This weak layer near the ground can be found in many areas above 8500' on west through north to east aspects. Although these slabs have become less reactive, they could still be triggered in very steep terrain. Avalanches of this type are likely to be one to two feet thick.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )An approaching storm system with significant moisture will bring increasing clouds Wednesday morning and snow is expected to start falling in the afternoon. Mountain temperatures are to reach the mid twenties and ridgetop winds will be westerly with 15 to 25 mph averages during the day with higher winds during the evening. As little snow expected during daylight hours, the avalanche danger on Wednesday will continue to be moderate above 9000 feet and low below that elevation. Riders and skiers have the potential to trigger slabs with depths of one to two feet in very steep terrain that lie upon old weak snow layers. These slabs have become less likely to fail over the last several days. Below 9000 feet the danger will be low, however isolated pockets of slab could be triggered, especially between 8500 and 9000 feet.
