Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

Avalanche problems

• 

  Wind Slabs

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Alpine
  • Treeline
  • Below treeline

  Likelihood

  Likely

  Size

  1–2

  Significant new snow and moderate winds over the past 72 hours have created unstable conditions. Human triggered avalanches are likely on all aspects at all elevations. Slabs will be 1-2 feet deep in sheltered areas and up to 4 feet deep in wind-loaded terrain at the upper elevations. Temperatures warming to, or even above, freezing will increase the sensitivity of these slabs in the lower elevations today. Large natural avalanches are likely above 7,500’ and could run into lower elevation runout zones. Traveling in, near, or under avalanche terrain is not recommended today. Groomed snowmobile trails that cross under avalanche paths should be approached with extreme caution given the potential for natural avalanches initiating above and impacting the trails. 

  Additional Discussion 

  Snow levels are forecasted to climb to 7,500’ in the Salt and Wyoming Ranges today. Rain is likely at the lower elevations. Rain can rapidly destabilize the snowpack, further increasing the avalanche hazard.

• 

  Persistent Slabs

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Alpine
  • Treeline
  • Below treeline

  Likelihood

  Possible

  Size

  1–2.5

  Weak snow that formed in early December is now buried 2-4 feet deep and is weakest in shaded terrain on the north half of the compass. Avalanches involving the new snow have the potential to step down to these layers, producing large and potentially unsurvivable avalanches. While avalanches involving weak snow near the base of the ground are not likely to be widespread yet, recent events involving these layers are a good reminder to be vigilant today. Snowmobiles and groups can also act as large triggers and have a greater chance of impacting these layers.