Togwotee Pass

Today, increasing wind speeds will transport snow and may form isolated pockets of shallow wind slab at the upper elevations. If these slabs form over the weak snowpack on north-facing terrain above 8,500 feet, they could be more sensitive to triggers. ‘Low’ hazard does not mean ‘no’ hazard, and it is possible for backcountry travelers to encounter small avalanches in steep terrain above 9,000’. Elsewhere avalanches are unlikely. Early season conditions remain a concern, and it is warranted to proceed with caution when traveling on the thin snowpack, especially as the new snow hides obstacles.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )A westerly flow will continue to bring light snowfall to the area with one to two inches of accumulation by nightfall tomorrow. Mountain temperatures will again be cold in the single digits rising into the teens. Westerly ridgetop winds are expected to increase overnight ranging from 20 to 25 miles per hour with gusts into the thirties. The stronger wind forecast has the potential to form small pockets of wind slabs on leeward slopes at the upper elevations. Backcountry travelers should use caution on steep, freshly loaded slopes. Although the avalanche hazard could increase slightly with sustained winds, the size of the avalanches will be small and the location will be isolated. For tomorrow, the hazard is expected to remain Low.