Togwotee Pass

The avalanche hazard is MODERATE at the higher elevations (9,000 to 10,500 feet) and LOW below an elevation of 9,000 feet. West-northwest winds and new snow continue to form soft surface slabs on leeward aspects up to 18 inches in depth. These slabs have not bonded well to slick or weak old snow surfaces and are likely to be easily triggered by the presence of a single person on a steep slope. Shallow loose snow sloughs are also likely on steep slopes and banks. Good terrain assessment and safe travel skills are essential in avalanche terrain today.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Clouds will lower and thicken Sunday evening with snow, heavy at times, beginning by late evening. Winds will be westerly overnight with 35 mile per hour averages and stronger gusts. Accumulations of six to ten inches are expected by Monday evening. Mountain temperatures will be in the teens. Rapid accumulations of new snow driven by strong westerly winds will increase the avalanche hazard through the day. The hazard is expected to rise to Considerable. The new snow will fall on crusts and smooth wind-pack on south and north to northeast facing slopes and faceted snow on a variety of aspects. New, building slabs will be easy to trigger by backcountry travelers. With increasing hazard through the storm cycle it will be essential to continuously assess stability.