Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

Weak faceted snow formed near the ground during dry periods In October and November in terrain above 8000 feet, . Avalanches involving this weak snow have been occurring ever since a series of snow storms starting loading it in late November. Conditions remain dangerous. Yesterday a snowboarder triggered a slab avalanche from a remote distance near the Pinedale Traverse, south of the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. These unstable slabs are becoming slightly less sensitive which will make slope evaluation even more difficult. Slopes that were obviously weak and failing upon approach may have gained just enough strength to lure people out onto the starting zones before failing. Caution is advised in steep avalanche terrain above 8000 feet. Avalanches at lower elevations are unlikely today.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Tuesday looks to be cold and dry as high pressure continues to build over the area. Temperatures are expected to be below zero at all elevations in the morning, with highs in the teens to low twenties. Skies are to be partly to mostly cloudy. The general avalanche hazard will continue to be Considerable above 8000 feet and Low below that elevation. Persistent weak layers could fail to the presence of a single person, resulting in slab avalanches to depths of three feet. As these slabs become slightly less sensitive they may not release until a skier or rider is committed onto the avalanche slope. Avalanches below 8000 feet are not expected.