The avalanche danger is CONSIDERABLE at the upper elevations where triggering an avalanche in a sensitive soft slab of new snow or wind-drifted snow is likely and MODERATE at the mid elevations where triggering an avalanche is possible. Low elevations have a LOW danger.
I expect the new storm slab to become less sensitive as the day progresses, but also watch for sudden increases in avalanche danger during any period of heavy snowfall.
Winds at the mid and upper elevations will create sensitive soft slabs of wind drifted snow on all aspects, including well down off of ridgelines. Cornices will be sensitive.
This storm has come in "right-side up" with lower-density snow on top of heaver/denser snow, so I am expecting instabilities within the storm snow to settle out as the day progresses. However, the new snow will quickly become reactive during any period of heavy snowfall, especially if accompanied by winds. Watch for sensitive soft slabs of new snow and long-running sluffs. Avalanches may run further than expected.
This Morning: Winds are from the west/northwest and moderate, with gusts in the 20's and 30's mph along exposed ridgelines. Temperatures are 15 - 20° F, with wind chills around zero. Hello, March.
24-hour snow/water totals are 4-10"/0.4 - 1.0"
Today: Temperatures will reach into the upper 20's and low 30's F and winds will be from the west and should diminish, but remain elevated, with gusts of 30 mph at the upper elevations. Snow showers are expected throughout the day, with a few inches of new snow possible. Some locations may even see a few glimpses of sun.
Extended: If you like snowfall in March, you've come to the right place. A small storm on Saturday with 2-4" of snow possible, with a brief break Sunday into Monday, followed by a larger storm early next week. More snow is possible again later next week.
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This information does not apply to developed ski areas or highways where avalanche control is normally done. This forecast is from the U.S.D.A. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This forecast describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.
