The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE above an elevation of 8,000 feet and LOW below that elevation. At the upper elevations humans, especially those on snow machines, have the potential to trigger slab avalanches in steep, wind loaded terrain. On steep northerly aspects above an elevation of 9,000 feet these surface slabs could step down to the ground and become full depth avalanches. Avalanches are unlikely at the lower elevations.
Wind slabs up to two feet in depth formed by west and northwest winds could be human triggered in steep avalanche terrain above an elevation of 8,000 feet. On steep northerly aspects above an elevation of 9,000 feet these surface slabs could step down to a weak layer of faceted snow at the base of the snowpack and become full depth avalanches.
On steep northerly aspects above an elevation of 9,000 feet deep hard slabs that lie upon a base of weak faceted snow are a concern, especially for larger triggers such as snowmobiles. In this terrain previous tracks should not be interpreted as a sign of stability and a conservative approach is warranted.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Periods of light snowfall with accumulations of about an inch are possible overnight. On Sunday skies will be partly cloudy with some occasional snow flurries. Temperature will rise from lows near 10 degrees into the mid to upper 20s. Winds will be westerly at 10 to 20 miles per hour with higher gusts at the summit level. On steep northerly aspects above an elevation of 9,000 feet deep persistent slabs remain a potential concern, especially for larger triggers such as snowmobiles. Pockets of wind slab one to two feet in depth formed by west and northwest winds also pose a threat to humans who venture into steep avalanche terrain at the upper elevations. Avalanches are unlikely at the lower elevations. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE above an elevation of 8,500 feet and LOW below that elevation.
