At the upper elevations dense wind slabs could be triggered by skier and riders who venture onto steep wind loaded avalanche prone slopes. Sunshine and warming temperatures may increase the sensitivity of these slabs to human triggers and may cause the release of loose snow slides from cliff areas and very steep slopes. Colder temperatures have decreased the wet snow avalanche hazard. A careful evaluation of terrain and snowpack is warranted.
At the upper elevations dense slabs that have been formed by southwest to north winds lie upon hard old snow surfaces could be triggered by the weight of a single person. These slabs could be up to two feet deep and due to their density being caught in one could be consequential.
The chance for scattered snow showers will continue overnight and through the day on Friday. Breaks in cloud cover will also be possible. Overnight lows in the mountains will be in the low teens before rising into the mid-20s during the day. Valley temperatures tonight will drop to near 20 before climbing into the upper 30s in the afternoon. Northerly to northwesterly ridgetop winds will range from 10 to 20 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard is expected to be Moderate above 9,000 feet on Friday. In steep, wind loaded avalanche terrain, skiers and riders could trigger recently developed wind slabs with depths of one to two feet. Any extended periods of sunshine will increase the likelihood of triggering these slides and also bring about the possibility of shallow point slides. With the diminished threat of wet slides, mostly stable conditions are expected below 9,000 feet. Monitor the impact of the sun, and be willing to alter your travel plans if conditions warrant.
