Large dense, slab avalanches that could fail on crusts and faceted old snow surfaces continue to be a hazard in steep terrain on west through north to east aspects at the higher elevations and on northerly aspects above an elevation of 8,000 feet. Assessing this the stability of these slabs is problematic. Large slab avalanches with severe consequences could be triggered by the weight of a single person even though a slope may have been crossed multiple times. Snowpack stability tests may not be reliable. A conservation approach to suspect terrain is warranted. Avalanches are unlikely below 8,000 feet where little snowfall has accumulated.
Dangerous slab avalanches formed by west to southwest winds could be human triggered on old snow surfaces that formed in October. These slabs are likely to be up to four feet deep at the upper elevations and two to three feet deep in steep north facing terrain above an elevation of 8,000 feet.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Large dense, slab avalanches that could fail on crusts and faceted old snow surfaces continue to be a hazard in steep terrain on west through north to east aspects at the upper elevations and on northerly aspects above an elevation of 8,500 feet. Assessing this hazard in steep avalanche terrain is problematic. Large slab avalanches with severe consequences could be triggered by the weight of a single person even though a slope may have been crossed multiple times. Snowpack stability tests may not be reliable. A conservation approach to suspect terrain is warranted. The general avalanche hazard is forecast to be MODERATE above an elevation of 8,500 feet and LOW below that elevation.
