Conditions are slightly cooler this morning with air temperatures reaching the freezing level down to an elevation of 7000-7500 feet. Wet loose avalanches are possible in the isothermal snowpack at lower elevations this morning. As the day warms, the chances for such activity will increase as will the potential for slides at the higher elevations. Beware of steep slopes in areas where snow surfaces are wet and unconsolidated.
The chance for wet loose slides will increase today in very steep terrain and cliff areas. These wet slides could release naturally or be triggered by humans. Once initiated, these slides can fan out and gain volume as they entrain deeper snow during their descent.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Moisture associated with a Pacific trough is to bring three to eight inches of snowfall to the upper elevations by Thursday night. Heaviest snowfall is to occur between 4am and noon Thursday. Temperatures are to be slightly cooler with highs at 9000 feet in the mid-thirties and valley temperatures reaching the mid-forties. Snow fall could briefly reach the valley floor during the morning.The general avalanche hazard will be Moderate. Wet slides will be possible in steep terrain at the low elevations in the early morning and will quickly become possible at all elevations as specific areas warm and the snow surface softens.
