In very steep, avalanche prone terrain at the mid and upper elevations, skiers and riders still have some potential of triggering small to large, recently developed wind slabs. Very large deep persistent slab avalanches might still be a concern in isolated areas. The snowpack is mostly stable at the lower elevations this morning. As the day warms, the possibility of triggering a small to large persistent slab avalanche may increase down low. Moderate hazard is not a green light. Evaluate the snowpack carefully, make prudent terrain choices, and continue to be wary of large cornices and the terrain below them.
Recently developed, dense wind slabs could be triggered by skiers and riders on a variety of aspects in very steep, avalanche prone terrain above 7,500 feet. These slabs, with depths of one to three feet, could become more susceptible to failure on sunlit aspects as the day warms.
In isolated areas, the weight of a single person might still be sufficient to trigger a deep persistent slab avalanche if a shallow, weak zone is encountered. Large triggers, such as snowmobiles, the release of a wind slab or a cornice failure, are likely needed to trigger one of these deadly avalanches. Slab depths could vary from four to eight feet at the higher elevations and two to four feet at the lower elevations.
Conditions will remain dry overnight. Clouds will increase on Tuesday. Skies are expected to be overcast by the end of the day. Temperatures will drop to zero or below overnight and rise into the teens and 20s during the day. Winds will be light and variable. The general avalanche hazard is forecast to be moderate above an elevation of 7,500 feet. Humans who venture into steep avalanche starting zones could trigger dense wind slab avalanches 1 to 3 feet deep. Deep persistent slabs avalanche are still a concern, especially in the Togwotee Pass area and other areas that still exhibit poor snowpack structure. These dangerous slabs could be three to six feet deep and are more likely to be initiated by larger triggers like snowmachines, cornice drops or the release of a wind slab. At the lower elevations the general avalanche hazard is expected to be low. Avalanches are unlikely except on isolated terrain features during the warmest portion of the day. As the day progresses, sunshine and warming temperatures could increase the sensitivity of areas of unstable snow to human triggers at all elevations. Conduct snow stability assessments, monitor conditions and avoid steep terrain with poor snow structure.
