New snow has fallen on a mostly stable snowpack whose surface was generally a hard crust. In many areas at the higher elevations, a few inches of cold light snow that fell over the weekend lies over that crust . Above 9000 feet, pockets of new wind slab lie upon these recent surfaces. These slabs could be human triggered and will increase in both size and sensitivity as additional snowfall occurs today. Below 9000 feet, avalanches are unlikely today except for in isolated pockets between 8000 and 9000 feet. Travel safely in the backcountry and avoid unnecessary risks during the COVID-19 crisis.
In upper elevation terrain that is prone to wind loading, soft slabs will continue to form today. These slabs are most likely to be found near ridge crests and in exposed cliff areas. Slabs depths could reach as much as a foot this afternoon.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )A stronger system is to impact the area tonight into Thursday morning although most of the accumulation will occur during the day on Wednesday. New snow totals of 6-12 inches in mountains and 3-5 inches in the valleys are expected. Winds are to back to the west tonight and have averages of 20-25 mph during the bulk of the snow. Later in the day on Wednesday winds are to veer to the north as snowfall diminishes. Mountain temperatures are to be warmer tomorrow with highs in the upper twenties.The general avalanche hazard will be Low in the morning as snow begins to accumulate on a stable snowpack. If significant snowfall and strong winds occur by the afternoon, the danger may rise to Moderate above 9000 feet as wind slabs form in steep terrain prone to wind loading near ridge crests and peaks.
