Tetons

At mid and upper elevations on all aspects, strengthening slabs lie upon weak layers of faceted snow and crusts near the ground. The result is that these slabs may hold in place for the first skiers or riders and then be released by later persons who hit a more sensitive trigger point that is not necessarily at the top or steepest point of the slope. In Western Wyoming this week we have had two fatalities, two serious injuries, and several close calls with avalanches. One slide south of the Jackson Hole Ski Area released after approximately 15 people had decsended the slope. At low elevations avalanches are unlikely except in isolated pockets on steep terrain.