In many areas a mostly stable snowpack exists. However, above 9000 feet on certain aspects, old weaknesses deeply buried near the ground still have some potential to fail and cause large and dangerous avalanches. Be advised that even in mostly stable areas, new snow is falling on hard crusts and backcountry travelers are encouraged to take caution and avoid being surprised by isolated pockets of small, shallow surface slabs, especially in terrain where a small event could could carry severe consequences.
The chance remains for backcountry travelers to trigger very large deep slab avalanches on northerly aspects above 9,000 feet. If triggered, these dangerous hard slabs could involve the full depth of the snowpack. It may require larger triggers such as snow machines or groups of people to cause this failure.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Another weak system is to bring snow to the area tonight and Saturday morning. Three to five inches of precipitation is expected at higher elevations during this time. Temperatures will remain on the warm side and some rain may fall at the lower elevations and valleys. Winds are to be from the south with 10-20 mph averages. The general avalanche hazard will be Low in the Tetons and Southwest Trails areas and Moderate in Togwotee pass area. Mostly stable snow exists. Avalanches are unlikely in the current snowpack and weather pattern until enough new snowfall creates new surface slabs. The exception to this is at Togwotee where deep slabs remain a concern on steep north facing avalanche terrain above 9000 feet. Remember that Low hazard does not mean no hazard exists and even small slides can carry harsh consequences in aggressive or extreme terrain.
