Togwotee Pass

The avalanche hazard will increase as the day progresses. It will be MODERATE at the higher elevations (9,000 to 10,500 feet) and LOW below an elevation of 9,000 feet. West-northwest winds will form pockets of new soft surface slab on leeward aspects up to 16 inches in depth. These slabs are not likely to bond 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 sluffs 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. )A moist northwest flow will bring snowfall to the mountain overnight and into Saturday. Accumulations of five inches are expected at the higher elevations overnight and will be accompanied by strong west winds. On Saturday light snowfall will continue with several inches of additional accumulation. Temperatures will be in the teens and 20s. Winds will be west to northwest at 25 to 35 miles per hour. Strong winds will create new soft slabs up to 16 inches deep on leeward aspects. These slabs will form upon good sliding surfaces and are likely to be easily triggered by humans. The general avalanche hazard will increase as the day progresses and is expected to be MODERATE at the higher elevations (9,000 to 10,500 feet) and LOW below an elevation of 9,000 feet.