Tetons

Today, increasing wind speeds will transport snow and may form isolated pockets of shallow wind slab at the upper elevations. ‘Low’ hazard does not mean ‘no’ hazard, and it is possible for backcountry travelers to encounter small avalanches in steep terrain above 9,000 feet. Elsewhere avalanches are unlikely. Early season conditions remain a concern, and it is warranted to proceed with caution when traveling on the thin snowpack, especially as the new snow hides obstacles.

As the upper-level flow transitions from northwest to southwest, temperatures are expected to increase, and an unsettled weather pattern will move into the region. Light snowfall will continue overnight and then is expected to increase to moderate snowfall rates on Sunday. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory from 5 PM tonight through 11 PM on Sunday for the Teton, Gros Ventre, and Yellow stone areas, with snowfall amounts from 6 to 12 inches and wind gusts on the high peaks to 55 miles per hour. Southwesterly ridgetop winds will be 25 to 30 miles per hour with higher gusts. Mountain temperatures should be about 10 degrees warmer than today, starting in the teens and then warm into the twenties. As the stormy weather moves into the region, the avalanche hazard will increase. The warming trend will also cause newly formed wind slabs to be upside down (heavier snow over lighter snow) and more reactive to triggers. The timing of the storm's arrival will dictate tomorrow’s avalanche hazard. Mountain enthusiasts, who venture on the few slopes at the upper elevations with enough snow to ski, should monitor for recent loading and travel with caution when rapid changes such as temperature, wind, and snowfall affect the existing snowpack.Early season conditions continue to be a concern, and the new light density snow has only made it more challenging to identify hidden obstacles. Please, travel with caution when sliding on the current thin snowpack.