Dangerous avalanche conditions continue, and backcountry travelers could trigger persistent slabs on a variety of aspects above 7,500 feet in elevation. A chance also remains for skiers and riders to trigger pockets of recently develop surface slab. Conservative decision making and cautious routed finding will be essential for safe travel in avalanche terrain today.
Snow has been consistently falling since December 8th. This snow accumulated upon an early season snowpack comprised of very weak, faceted snow and crusts. This combination has resulted in an unstable snowpack, and deep hard slab avalanches could be triggered by the weight of a single skier or rider. If triggered, these slabs could have depths to four feet and are likely to carry serious consequences.
Recent snowfall and southwesterly ridgetop winds have formed pockets of wind slab on leeward slopes. Skiers and riders venturing into steep, wind loaded terrain could trigger these slabs to depths of two feet.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Expect mostly clear skies and very cold temperatures on Saturday. Overnight lows in the mountains will be near 10 below zero before climbing into the single digits during the day. Valley lows will be even colder. Northeasterly ridgetop winds will range from 5 to 15 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard is expected to remain CONSIDERABLE on Saturday. On a variety of aspects in the Tetons, the weight of a single skier or rider could release deep persistent slab avalanches up five in depth on slopes above 7,500 feet. Similar slides up to four feet deep are likely in the Togwotee Pass and Greys River areas. Use conservative decision making and come home safely to your friends and family this holiday season.
