A persistent weak layer of faceted snow that developed during the cold dry period in mid November exists on almost all aspects and elevation bands in the La Sal range. The buried PWL does not exist below treeline (BTL) on slopes that face SW-S-SE. Very dangerous avalanche conditions exist on any slope that harbors this buried PWL. The storm has overloaded the buried weak layer and will likely produce natural avalanches on slopes that face NW-N-E. Strong winds associated with the storm have complicated this problem. Wind drifted snow has put additional weight on these buried weak layers stressing them to their breaking point. Any avalanche triggered in a fresh wind drift has the potential to step down and trigger a more dangerous and deep avalanche failing on a buried PWL. Human triggered avalanches are very likely today, and travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended. Stick to low angle slopes with no steep terrain above you.

Today there is a danger of triggering avalanches in the new snow in the the form of storm slab avalanches and dry loose avalanches. The initial 13 inches came in heavy with 1.9" SWE. This has likely created a slab within the new snow. Look for soft slab avalanches in steep sheltered terrain during the storm. These avalanches are likely to be triggered in the steepest part of a starting zone or on convex rollovers. As more snow stacks up, dry loose avalanches will also be possible. This type of avalanche can pick up speed quickly and knock you off your feet. Small dry loose avalanches can become more dangerous around terrain traps. Avoid steep and complex terrain.