Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE above 9000 feet. Backcountry riders and skiers have the potential to trigger pockets of dense wind slab to 18 inch depths. These slabs lie in exposed terrain that is very steep where recent wind loading has occurred. Below 9,000 feet the hazard is LOW where isolated pockets to ten inches could be triggered in very steep terrain.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Strong south to southwest winds are expected overnight and through Saturday. Averages above forty miles per hour are possible on mountain summits. Windy conditions are expected in the valleys as well and blowing and drifting conditions are possible. Temperatures are to be warmer with highs near thirty degrees forecasted for the high elevations. The general avalanche hazard is expected to Moderate above 9000 feet where the potential continues for backcountry skiers or riders to trigger pockets of slabs that could be soft or hard to eighteen inch depths. This hazard will be most prevalent in very steep exposed areas near ridge crests and summits. Below 9000 feet isolated pockets to twelve inch depths could be triggered and the avalanche hazard will be Low.