Backcountry travelers could trigger newly developed, dense surface slabs in steep, wind-loaded terrain. Due to the density of these slabs, the consequences of being caught are higher than with typical slabs of this depth. While unlikely, similar slides might be triggered at the mid elevations. In isolated areas at the lower elevations, shallow wet slides might be seen in steep terrain.
Recent snowfall, with snow water equivalents near two inches, in conjunction with strong southwesterly ridgetop winds have created dense wind slabs above 9,000 feet. Skiers and riders could trigger these slides with depths of one to two feet.
Light, scattered snow showers will continue overnight and through Thursday. Overnight lows in the mountains will be in the low to mid 20s before rising to near 30 during the day. Southwesterly ridgetop winds will range from 15 to 25 miles per hour.In steep, wind loaded terrain above 9,000 feet, backcountry travelers could trigger pockets of recently developed, dense surface slabs with depths of one to two feet. While unlikely, skier and riders might also be able to trigger hard slabs failing on faceted snow from October in very steep, northerly terrain above 9,000 feet.
