Above 9,000 feet, backcountry travelers could trigger small to large wind slabs in very steep, wind loaded terrain. Daytime warming may increase the likelihood of triggering these slabs and bring about the possibility of shallow wet slides. Any unexpected periods of sunshine should initiate a conversation about travel through or below sunlit, avalanche terrain. Below 9,000 feet, the snowpack is mostly stable during the cool, morning hours. As the day progresses, warming temperatures and possible sunshine could increase the chance for small wet slides in isolated areas.
Skiers and riders venturing into very steep, avalanche-prone terrain above 9,000 feet could trigger recently developed wind slabs up to two feet in depth. Daytime warming could increase the likelihood of triggering these slides. Monitor temperatures and be prepared to move to shaded terrain if any extended periods of sunshine occur.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Expect mostly cloudy skies and light mountain snow/valley rain as northwesterly flow aloft brings a Pacific disturbance through the region. Overnight lows in the mountains will be in the upper teens before rising to near 30 in the afternoon. Northwesterly ridgetop winds will back to the southwest at 15 to 25 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard is expected to be Moderate above 9,000 feet on Friday. Skiers and riders venturing into very steep, wind-loaded terrain could trigger recently developed wind slabs up to two feet in depth. Daytime warming may increase the likelihood of triggering these slabs and bring about the possibility of shallow point slides. Any unexpected periods of sunshine should initiate a conversation about travel through or below sunlit, avalanche terrain. Below 9,000 feet, the snowpack is mostly stable during the cool, morning hours. As the day progresses, warming temperatures and possible sunshine could increase the hazard in isolated areas.
