Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

The recent storm brought fifteen to eighteen inches of snow to the Southwest Trails area. This snow was accompanied by strong winds with gusts to 69 mph. Wind slabs have formed in steep leeward terrain above 8000 feet. The potential exists for these slabs to be human triggered today. Do not travel in areas where wind loading is suspected. In an effort to minimize the potential for backcountry rescue, evacuation, or the need for medical treatment, make very conservative terrain choices and avoid all steep avalanche paths at this time. Avalanche activity is not expected below 8000 feet except for small surface wet slides during prolonged periods of sunshine. Practice recommended protocols involving the COVID-19 pandemic such as social distancing at access points.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Snow showers are to taper off overnight with lingering snow showers expected through the day on Wednesday. Temperatures are to drop to near ten degrees overnight before rising into the low twenties in the afternoon. Valley temperatures are to reach the high thirties. Winds are to have 10-20 mph averages and be westerly. The general avalanche danger will be Moderate above 9000 feet where humans could trigger soft slabs to two foot depths in steep wind loaded terrain. These slabs will be dense and could easily knock a person over and carry them. Between 8000 and 9000 feet isolated pockets of shallow slab could be triggered in some areas. Avalanches are not expected at low elevations. In an effort to minimize the potential for backcountry rescue, evacuation, or the need for medical treatment, make very conservative terrain choices and avoid all steep avalanche paths at this time.