Above 9,000 feet, backcountry travelers could possibly trigger slab avalanches up to 3 feet in depth. In most areas below that elevation, avalanches are unlikely. Keep in mind, the snow coverage is still thin, and even a small slide could have high consequences. Also, Grand Targhee and Jackson Hole Mountain Resorts are closed to uphill travel.
Several inches of new snow and strong winds have continued to load leeward slopes and form wind slabs along ridgelines and terrain features.
The weather is expected to calm down overnight as high pressure moves into the region. Temperatures will continue to drop into the single digits in the mountains and teens in the valleys. Tomorrow, skies will be partly cloudy, temperatures will warm 10 to 15 degrees, and light winds will be veering from the southwest to the northwest. Above 9,000 feet, where strong winds and new snow have formed into dense wind slabs, the avalanche hazard is expected to be Moderate. At the upper elevations on steep, wind loaded slopes, skiers and riders could trigger slab avalanches 1 to 2 feet in depth. Due to the recent winds and cooling temperatures, these slabs may be dense and difficult to trigger. In most areas below 9,000 feet, avalanches are unlikely, the hazard is expected to be Low.
