Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
4 · High
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
No rating
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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

A winter storm will continue to bring heavy snow and very strong winds today. Wind slabs will increase in size and sensitivity and are expected to release naturally by this afternoon. Once triggered an avalanche is likely to involve deeper snow layers as the new and recent snow lies upon a very weak snowpack . Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended. 

The NWS has issued a Winter Storm Warning that is in effect until  Monday 11am.

 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Very Likely
    Size
    1–2

    Significant snowfall and winds from south-southwest to the west continue to form soft winds slabs on a variety of aspects. These slabs are expected to release naturally as they are futher loaded this afternoon and wind speeds increase.  They will be very sensitive to backcountry riders and skiers throughout the day. Slab depths could reach over 2 feet.  

    (2/1/2025)

    Example of sensitive wind slab yesterday in the Tetons. 

    Photo: Bob Turgeon

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    The snowpack at Togwotee is wrought with weak snow layers. Rapid loading is further stressing these layers. Avalanches could initiate on these deep layers when impacted by a person or as a result of a triggered wind slab.  These slabs could release as hard or soft slabs and have depths of 1 to 4 feet. Feeling the snowpack collapse or witnessing deep shooting cracks is a sign of this instability. 

     

Avalanche Discussion

The current snow storm starting falling on snow surfaces formed from a sustained dry period. In most terrain, that means the recent snow surfaces were weak faceted snow or on high exposed terrain both wind crusts and melt-freeze crusts could be found. The winds have been strong transporting the new snow, loading areas, particularly around cliffs as much of the snow fell as graupel. The wind slab problem could fail at the storm interface or on density breaks within the new snow. As mentioned weaker snow underlies the new snow hazard and could be involved once a slab is initiated. The increase is the danger rating to high is due to the significant snowfall that is expected today. Even if those forecast amounts do not verify, human triggered avalanches will still be likely in terrain over 30 degrees in steepness. 

If you see avalanche activity today, consider submitting an observation HERE. Observations allow everyone to gain a better and more complete understanding of conditions. Thanks!

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