Tetons

The combination of new snow, strong winds and warmer temperatures have combined to increase the hazard. At the upper elevations strong northwest winds have created dense surface slabs up to two feet in depth on leeward aspects. These slabs could be triggered by humans who venture onto steep, wind loaded slopes. At the mid elevations isolated pockets of dense surface slab up to 18 inches deep could also be triggered by humans on very steep wind loaded aspects. Avalanches are not likely at the lower elevation where several inches on new snow has fallen upon mostly bare ground.

A Winter weather advisory is in effect for Yellowstone, the Teton, Gros Ventres, Salt River and Wyoming Ranges as well as Star Valley and Jackson Hole. A potent disturbance will move in from the northwest and bring widespread snowfall to the region this evening. Periods of moderate to heavy snowfall will begin after 9 PM and continue through early afternoon before diminishing. Storms totals of five to 10 inches are likely. Mountain temperatures will be in the 20’s. Strong west to northwest winds will accompany the snowfall. Winds speeds of 40 with gusts to 60 miles per hour are expected along the ridge crests and at the pass levels. The general avalanche hazard above an elevation of 8,000 feet is expected to increase to CONSIDERABLE and create dangerous conditions. Strong winds and new snow will combine to form dense surface slabs up to three feet in depth. Natural avalanche activity is possible and human triggered avalanches are likely in steep avalanche prone terrain. Avalanches are not likely at the lower elevations where the general avalanche hazard is expected to be LOW.