The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE above 7,500 feet. There, some potential may remain for backcountry travelers to trigger persistent slabs up to two feet deep in isolated areas. The likelihood of triggering these slides will increase with daytime warming on sunlit aspects along with the chance of cornice failures. Below 7,500 feet, the hazard is LOW and avalanches are unlikely.
Dense slabs lie upon faceted snow and stout crusts, which formed in January. Skiers and riders might still be able to trigger slides failing on these layers in very steep, avalanche-prone terrain above 7,500 feet.
Warm temperatures are weakening cornices, which could release naturally or under the weight of a skier or rider.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Expect mostly clear skies on Friday as a ridge of high pressure continues to be the dominant force in the weather pattern. Overnight lows in the mountains will be in the low 20s before rising into the mid to upper 30s during the day. Northwesterly ridgetop winds will range from 5 to 15 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE on Friday. In isolated areas above 7,500 feet, some potential may remain for backcountry travelers to trigger persistent slabs up to two feet deep. The likelihood of triggering these slides will increase as the day warms, particularly on sunlit aspects.
