Avalanche forecast

Sawtooth & Western Smoky Mtns

Sawtooth Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Small Wet Loose avalanches are possible this afternoon as surface crusts break down. If you're sinking deep into wet, mushy snow, you've missed your window. While your odds are low, it's not impossible to trigger a slab avalanche in steep, upper elevation terrain that faces away from the sun.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    You may be able to trigger small Wet Loose avalanches. These are most likely during the heat of the day on very steep slopes that face the sun. Although slow-moving, these avalanches are surprisingly powerful and difficult to escape. 

    Starting and ending your day early is a great way to reduce your risk. If crusts become unsupportable, move to a shadier aspect or consider calling it a day.

    Additional Discussion - Dry Slabs: You're most likely to trigger a dry slab avalanche above ~9,000 feet in steep, rocky terrain that faces away from the sun.

    Large Wet Loose avalanche in the Northern Sawtooths near Williams Peak. NE 9000'.

    Photo: Sawtooth Avalanche Center

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