At the upper elevations new wind slabs have been formed on leeward aspects. Today's sunshine will increase the likelihood for humans to trigger small slab avalanches and may cause loose snow sloughs to occur on steep sunlit aspects. These slides could pose a hazard to backcountry users who venture into steep couloirs, cliff areas and extreme terrain. Avalanches are unlikely below an elevation of 9,000 feet except on isolated terrain features.
At the upper elevations west-northwest winds have formed pockets of wind slab 6 to 18 inches in depth. These slabs could be triggered by skiers or riders in steep avalanche starting zones and will become more sensitive to human triggers as the day progresses.
Expect overcast skies tonight and through most of the day on Thursday as an upper level low pressure system to the west brings warm, moist Pacific air to the area. Overnight lows in the mountains will be near 20 before rising into the mid-30s in the afternoon. Ridgetop winds will back to the east at 5 to 15 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard is expected to be Moderate above 9,000 feet on Thursday. Mountain temperatures are forecasted to start out between 10 and 15 degrees warmer than Wednesday morning. Skiers and riders venturing into very steep, avalanche prone terrain could trigger wind slabs up to two feet in depth. As the day warms, the likelihood of triggering these slabs will increase, and the possibility of wet slides involving the new snow could develop, particularly if periods of sunshine occur. Monitor weather conditions, and have a plan to transition to cooler terrain if snow surfaces start to become saturated. Below 9,000 feet, significant avalanche activity is unlikely.
