At all elevations, the general avalanche hazard is LOW this morning and will increase to Moderate this afternoon. Soft surface slabs will build today upon a snowpack that consists of weak faceted snow in most areas and on hard snow surfaces in some areas of high exposed terrain.
Soft slabs that will be shallow this morning will increase in sensitivity and size this afternoon as new snow accumulates. These slabs will be sensitive to human triggers in steep terrain at all elevations and could have depths to a foot by this afternoon.
Colder air is to move in overnight and Friday bringing temperatures down to the single digits by Friday afternoon. This cold air is expected to release several inches of snow from the lingering clouds as moisture moves east of the area. Winds are to become northerly with five to fifteen mile per hour averages. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be Low with isolated pockets of soft slabs in high wind loaded areas. If significant snowfall occurs, the hazard could be Moderate as the snowpack that has prevalent faceted snow is unable to bear much loading. Check the morning advisories for snowfall totals and the most up to date conditions.
