Numerous natural avalanches have occurred over the last several days, and avalanche conditions remain dangerous. In steep avalanche terrain, skiers and riders could trigger small to large, recently developed wind slabs. Large to very large, deep persistent slab avalanches continue to be a threat. Very large cornices also exist along high elevation ridgelines, and they should be given a wide berth. As the day warms, periods of sunshine could increase the likelihood of avalanche activity and cornice failures. If you choose to travel in avalanche terrain, conservative terrain choices and careful snowpack evaluation will be essential. Plenty of great skiing and riding can be found on low consequence slopes. Shallow wet slides might be possible in the afternoon on low elevation, sunlit slopes.
Recently developed, dense wind slabs could be triggered by skiers and riders on a variety of aspects in steep avalanche terrain. Above 7,500 feet, these slabs could range in depth from one to three feet, and be up to 18 inches deep below 7,500 feet.
Over three inches of snow water equivalent have been recently added on top of persistent weak layers of faceted snow deep in the snowpack. Backcountry travelers still have some potential of triggering deep persistent slab avalanches failing on these problem layers, and natural activity might still be possible. Large triggers, such as snowmobiles, the release of a wind slab or a cornice drop, are more likely than an individual skier to initiate one of these deadly avalanches. Slab depths are likely to vary from three to six feet at the higher elevations up to three feet at the lower elevations.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Cloud cover will increase overnight, and some light snowfall could occur. During the day on Saturday, expect a mix of cloudy skies and sunshine along with the chance for light, scattered snow showers. Overnight lows in the mountains will be in the single digits before rising to near 10 degrees in the afternoon. Southwesterly ridgetop winds will range from 10 to 20 miles per hour.Dangerous avalanche conditions exist, and the general avalanche hazard will remain Considerable on Saturday. In steep avalanche terrain above 7,500 feet, skiers and riders will continue to be able to trigger recently developed wind slabs with depths of one to four feet. Deep persistent slab avalanches remain a concern. Large triggers, such as snowmobiles, the release of a wind slab or a cornice drop, are more likely than an individual skier to trigger one of these deadly avalanches. In the mountains, these slabs could range in depth from four to eight feet, with the Tetons on the higher end of the spectrum, and Togwotee Pass on the lower end. Shallow slides involving the recent snowfall, along with persistent slabs up to four feet deep, could be possible below 7,500 feet. Periods of sunshine could increase the likelihood of avalanches during the day, especially at the lower elevations. Conservative terrain choices will be necessary for safe travel in avalanche terrain on Saturday. Great skiing and riding can easily be found in low consequence terrain.
