Tetons

Soft surface slabs formed from recent snows and strong Southwest to Northwest winds lie in avalanche terrain at mid and high elevations. These slabs could be triggered on steep wind loaded slopes by backcountry skiers and riders to depths of two feet this morning. Additional snow and wind will increase the size and sensitivity of these slabs throughout the day. At low elevations avalanches are unlikely except in isolated pockets this afternoon where new soft slabs form in steep wind loaded terrain. Yesterday a 2' surface slab was triggered on approach in the A Chute of Granite Canyon.

A strong Pacific system is forecasted to impact the region starting Thursday night and continuing into Friday. This storm system could bring three to six inches of new snowfall with accompany strong Westerly winds at 30 to 45 mph. Overnight lows in the mountains should drop to near 10 degrees Fahrenheit.The General Avalanche Hazard is expected to rise to CONSIDERABLE in the TETON, TOGWOTEE PASS/CONTINENTAL DIVIDE, and GREYS RIVER/SOUTHWEST TRAILS areas. In addition to creating whiteout conditions, strong winds and new snow will continue to build upon existing slabs, increasing both their likelihood of failure and the consequences of getting caught. This additional load will also increase the possibility of triggering climax avalanches in the shallow, faceted snowpacks existing in the Togwotee Pass and Greys River areas.