Tetons

At the upper elevations the hazard has already increased significantly. The hazard at all elevations will increase as new snow accumulates. Southwest to west winds have formed soft surface slabs up to two feet deep that lie upon slick old snow surfaces. These slabs are likely to be easily triggered especially where they lie upon buried areas of suncrust, windpack or surface hoar. With more snow ,wind and rising temperatures in the forecast these slabs will continue to increase in size and depth and become more unstable as the day progresses.

A snow advisory will be in effect for tonight with widespread snowfall of 7 to 9 inches in the mountains. Some areas may see up to a foot of new snow. Snowfall intensity will decrease early Sunday morning between systems before another disturbance impacts the area. Overnight lows will drop to near 10 degrees, before rising into the mid 20s on Sunday. Winds will be Westerly at 20 to 25 mph.AVALANCHE HAZARD FOR THE TETON, TOGWOTEE PASS / CONTINENTAL DIVIDE AND GREYS RIVER / SOUTHWEST TRAILS AREAS:The general avalanche hazard is CONSIDERABLE and rising. New snowfall and Southwest winds continue to build soft slabs on leeward aspects. These slabs are likely to be quite reactive tomorrow, particularly on sunlit aspects where a strong suncrust will provide a good sliding surface. On shaded aspects, these slabs lie upon buried surface hoar and wind pack. Human triggered avalanches are probable and will increase in depth and volume as the storm cycle progresses. Some potential exists in the Togwotee and Greys River areas for larger deep slabs to be triggered, especially by snowmachines. Backcountry users are advised to consult area specific forecasts issued every morning as new information may become available and unexpected weather can change conditions.