Weak layers of faceted snow persist in the snowpack. Areas of instability associated with these weak layers exist on steep slopes at the mid and upper elevations. On some steep slopes the weight of a single person could trigger a large slab avalanche. Larger triggers like snowmachines and groups of skiers may be more likely to trigger one of these slabs. As these slabs slowly become less sensitive to human triggers unstable slopes may not fail until they have been crossed multiple times. For this reason previous tracks on a slope should not be considered to be an indication of stability. Avalanches are unlikely at the lower elevations.
At the mid and upper elevations the weight of a single person could trigger slab avalanches 12 to 30 inches in depth on steep slopes. It could be possible for a person to trigger one of these slab avalanches on a slope that has tracks from previous skiers or snowmobilers.
The light snowfall to the south is forecast to end overnight. Other areas will experience clear skies. Temperatures will be inverted and very cold on Thursday morning. Daytime highs will rise into the teens. Winds will be light and variable.Areas of unstable snow persist on steep slopes. At the mid and upper elevations the buried layer of faceted snow that formed in November still has potential to be a failure plane for large avalanches. Slab avalanches up to 30 inches in depth could be triggered by the weight of a single person on this persistent weak layer. Heavier triggers like snowmachines may be more likely to trigger one of these slabs. Avalanches are possible on slopes that have tracks. Avalanches are unlikely below an elevation of 7,500 feet.
