Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

The general avalanche hazard remains CONSIDERABLE today on very steep snow covered slopes. Soft surface slabs up to six feet in depth could be triggered on steep wind loaded avalanche prone slopes especially by larger triggers such as snow machines or groups of skiers. Sunshine and rising temperatures will increase the sensitivity of these slabs to triggers as the day progresses and could result in the spontaneous release of sizable soft slabs, loose snow sluffs and sunballs and pinwheels on steep sunlit aspects. Clear skies and good visibility generally encourage backcountry users to take greater risks. Good decision making skills are essential today.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )A respite from significant snowfall should last through Friday as high pressure builds into the area. There is potential for morning valley fog. A thermal inversion will enable mountain temperatures to rise into the upper 20's. Ridgetop winds will be north to northwesterly at 5 to 15 MPH. AVALANCHE HAZARD FOR THE TETON, TOGWOTEE PASS/CONTINENTAL DIVIDE AND GREYS RIVER/SOUTHWEST TRAILS AREASThe general avalanche danger is expected to remain CONSIDERABLE. Soft surface slabs up to several feet deep are likely to be easily triggered by a single skier on steep wind loaded aspects. The potential for very large dangerous slabs to be human triggered and run long distances persist. Sunshine and warm temperatures will increase the sensitivity of these slabs to human triggers as the day progresses and could trigger sizable soft slabs, loose snow sluffs and sunballs and pinwheels on steep sunlit aspects. Backcountry users are advised to consult area specific forecasts issued every morning as new information may become available and unexpected weather can change conditions.