Above 8500 feet, the chance persists for snowmobilers to trigger dangerous hard slab avalanches in isolated areas. Shallow wind slab avalanches could also be triggered by riders or skiers in steep wind loaded terrain. Avalanches are unlikely below 8500 feet today.
Some potential could remain for snowmobilers to trigger deep hard slabs in isolated areas where weak faceted snow persist near the base of the snowpack. These dangerous slabs could have depths to five feet.
Slab avalanches up to eighteen inches in depth could be triggered by riders or skiers in very steep terrain and cliff areas. These slabs could become more sensitive today as they are weakened by rising temperatures and direct sunlight.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Friday is expected to begin with clear skies that are to become cloudy in the afternoon as another system enters the area. Scattered snow showers are to develop by evening. Temperatures are to rise into the upper twenties. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be Moderate. In terrain above 8500 feet, soft to dense slabs could be triggered in steep wind loaded terrain. A slight chance also persists to trigger deeper hard slabs in the Togwotee Pass forecast area.
