Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

Keep an eye out for unstable snow in isolated areas of steep, wind loaded, upper elevation terrain where small and shallow avalanches may be triggered. Otherwise, mostly stable avalanche conditions exist. Practice safe travel habits such as riding one at a time and planning your route to identify areas of increased exposure to consequential terrain.

The Salt River and Wyoming ranges received a couple inches of snow over the weekend that was accompanied by enough westerly wind to form shallow, soft wind slabs less than 6 inches deep. These wind slabs were reactive two days ago and are becoming more stubborn today. Look for obvious signs of wind loaded slopes including shooting cracks and stiff or drifted snow. This is most likely above the treeline. Although not large enough to bury a person, these avalanches could knock you off your feet or machine. 

Prior to the slight snowfall over the weekend, the forecast area had been dry for nearly 2 weeks. Weak layers of facets, surface hoar, and crusts developed on the snow surface during this period. If you are venturing into the backcountry, start tracking where these weak layers exist beneath the recent snow. Depending on the characteristics of the next significant storm, these layers could create problems whenever it starts snowing again. Consider submitting an observation to help keep everyone informed on backcountry conditions. We receive few public observations in this zone.