Recent snowfall and strong winds have created wind slabs above 8000 feet. Although natural avalanches are not expected today, these slabs can be triggered by backcountry travelers. These slabs are larger and more sensitive at the higher elevations and will become more reactive as they are weakened be daytime warming this afternoon. Yesterday, several close calls occurred on slopes to the south of the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. One slide on the Powder 8 Face on Cody Peak failed after the slope had been tracked. Similar events are possible today in the Southwest Trails area. Avalanches at lower elevations are not expected except for small wet loose activity this afternoon. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully today.
Slabs formed by west to southwest winds could be human triggered today. These slabs could have depths to two feet at the higher elevations and are most likely to be found in very steep terrain that is prone to wind loading.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Friday looks to be dry with partly to mostly clouds again allowing sunlight to aid in warming conditions. Tomorrow afternoon, temperatures at the higher elevations are again to rise into the upper twenties and could reach into the low thirties. The general avalanche will continue to be Moderate above 8000. The potential continues for skiers and riders to trigger wind slabs in terrain that was loaded over the last week’s storm cycle. The size and sensitivity of this threat increases with elevation. At least one slide triggered today was large and similar events are possible tomorrow, particularly during the heat of the day.
