Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

The snowpack continues to adjust to the added load since December 5, with settlement rates of several inches per day. This snow lies over a variety of surfaces from the ground to weak faceted snow grains. Today, in steep avalanche-prone terrain above 8,500 feet, it is possible for backcountry travelers to trigger slab avalanches on the interface of these older layers. Also along the high ridges, southwesterly winds are transporting snow and forming shallow wind slabs. When traveling through the backcountry today, it is important to carefully evaluate the snow and terrain for where these problem areas could exist. Below 8,000 feet where the hazard is Low, avalanches are unlikely.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )The area is expected to remain dry with partly cloudy skies. Temperatures will drop into the single digits overnight and then warm into the twenties in the mountains and thirties in the valleys. Westerly ridgetop winds will be 15 to 25 miles per hour with gusts into the thirties. The avalanche danger will be Moderate above 8,000 feet. Where in steep, avalanche-prone terrain, it will be possible for skiers and riders to trigger avalanches up to three feet in depth. The variability of the buried weak layers and areas of loaded snow, make it important to check a slope's stability before crossing into steep terrain. As winds continue to transport snow at the upper elevations, small shallow wind slabs could be found along the high ridges. Below 8,000 feet, avalanches are unlikely.