Periods of moderate to heavy snowfall along with sustained strong winds will increase the avalanche hazard today by forming wind slabs at the upper elevations. In addition to the new snow and wind, temperatures will continue to warm causing the snowpack to be upside-down with heavier snow over lighter snow, which will result in these slab avalanches being more easily triggered. Backcountry travelers should monitor the changing conditions as it becomes possible to trigger small avalanches on wind-loaded slopes above 9,000 feet. Below this elevation, avalanches are unlikely. When venturing into the backcountry today, remember the increased consequences of being involved in a slide due to the thin coverage.
At the upper elevations, the avalanche hazard will be increasing throughout the day as slopes continue to be loaded with new snow and south-southwesterly winds transporting snow. Avalanches are expected to be small with depths of about 12 inches or less.
A strong southwesterly flow will continue over the area for the next several days. Skies will remain overcast with orographic snow showers. Light accumulations are possible. Temperatures will be in the 20’s in the mountains. On the summits southwest winds will be 15 to 25 miles per hour with higher gusts.At the highest elevations west to southwest winds have formed pockets of wind slab one to two feet deep on leeward aspects. In steep, wind loaded avalanche starting zones these slabs could be triggered by humans on hard or weak old snow surfaces. Evaluate the snow and terrain carefully and consider the consequences of triggering even a small avalanche. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be moderate above an elevation of 9,000 feet and low below that elevation.
