Togwotee Pass

Dangerous avalanche conditions exist. Warm temperatures, dense new snow, areas of rain and strong winds have combined to create unstable conditions. During the past several days multiple skiers and riders have been caught and carried by avalanches in the Teton forecast region. Dense slab avalanches could be easily triggered by humans and could release naturally. Wet slides are possible at the lower elevations. Careful snowpack evaluation and conservative terrain choices are warranted.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Periods of moderate to heavy snowfall and strong winds will continue. Snowfall rates of two inches per hour could occur for extended periods. One to two feet of new snow is forecast to fall in the mountains by Tuesday evening. Temperatures will be in the 20s and 30s in the mountains and above freezing below an elevation of 6,500 feet. Winds will be southwest at 25 to 30 with gusts to near 50 miles per hour.The new snow and strong winds will continue to increase the avalanche hazard. Dense surface slabs two to four feet in depth are likely to be easily triggered by humans and may release naturally in steep avalanche prone terrain at the mid and upper elevations. These slides have been running long distances and can impact the lower elevations where they also entrain wet snow. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be CONSIDERABLE at the mid and upper elevations and may increase to HIGH in the Teton Range where new snow totals for the past several days have been significantly higher than other areas. Dangerous conditions are expected. Humans who venture into steep couloirs and active avalanche starting zones are likely to trigger dangerous dense slab avalanches. Potential slide surfaces include a rain crust buried surface hoar, density breaks and buried graupel snow. Wet slides are possible at the lower elevations.