Weak layers of faceted snow persist within the snowpack at the higher elevations and comprise the bulk of the snowpack in areas with a shallow snow cover. At the higher elevations persistent weak layers may still be capable of failing due to the weight of a person. Slab failure may be more likely to be initiated on steep slopes by a larger triggers such as snowmachines and skiers or riders who hit a shallow weak spot in the snowpack. Avalanches are unlikely below an elevation of 8,000 feet except on isolated terrain features.
In steep terrain at the hjigher elevations large slab avalanches could be human triggered with depths to three feet. Avalanches are unlikely below an elevation of 8,000 feet.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. ) Skies will remain mostly clear however some high clouds may ride over this ridge. Temperatures are expected to drop into the upper single tonight and rise into the 20s during the day. Winds will be backing from the west towards the southwest and increase in the afternoon from 15 to 20 with gusts to 25 to 30 miles per hour. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be moderate at the mid and upper elevations and be low below an elevation of 7,500 feet. Persistent weak layers may still be capable of failing due to the weight of a person. Slab avalanches up to three in depth could be triggered on these problem layers. Slab failure may be more likely to be initiated by a skier or rider who hits a shallow weak spot in the snowpack on a steep slope and by larger triggers like snowmachines.
