Triggering wind slabs will be very likely today, and natural wind slab avalanches will become very likely by this afternoon. The largest, most fragile wind slabs will form on NW-N-NE-E-SE aspects in near and above treeline terrain, but some wind slabs may also develop in open areas below treeline due to the strength of the wind. These avalanches could be very large and travel down into below-treeline areas.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The avalanche danger will rise quickly as a strong winter storm brings new snow and continued gale-force winds. Slabs of wind-blown snow and storm snow will avalanche on steep slopes during this blizzard. Avalanches will be very likely by this afternoon, and traveling on, near, or below steep slopes is not recommended during this storm.
During this storm, traveling in, around, or below avalanche terrain is not recommended.
CLICK HERE to see updates on the avalanche forecasts from the Sierra Avalanche Center