If copious, sustained rainfall occurs into the higher elevations, the general avalanche hazard might increase to High in the afternoon. Wet slides, which could release naturally, will be the primary concern. These avalanches have the potential to travel long distances and entrain large amounts of snow. Above 9,000 feet, the chance for backcountry travelers to trigger small to large wind slabs will be on the increase as the day warms. Most terrain below 7,500 feet is either bare or has undergone multiple melt-freeze cycles. However, with the second night of above freezing temperatures and rain on the way, steep terrain with a deep, isothermal snowpack should be avoided.
Significant wet slabs and wet loose slides could release naturally in the afternoon if sustained rainfall occurs. The timing of the release of wet slabs is difficult to predict, and terrain where these avalanches could occur should be given a wide margin of safety. Be very suspect of slopes where dry, old snow is melting for the first time.
Dry slab avalanches could occur in some areas above 9,000 feet. As the day warms, skiers and riders will be increasingly likely to trigger these slabs in steep, avalanche-prone terrain. These dense slabs could reach depths of two feet by this evening.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )The next in a series of Pacific shortwaves will bring increasing precipitation intensity through the day on Saturday. Rain is expected below 8,000 feet overnight, and the rain line will increase in elevation during the day. Overnight lows in the mountains will be in the mid-20s before rising into the mid-30s in the afternoon. Southwesterly ridgetop winds will range from 10 to 20 miles per hour.The Wyoming Department of Transportation is planning to close Teton Pass at 9 AM on Saturday due to the threat of wet slides. They will reassess conditions at 3 PM. The primary factors for the avalanche hazard on Saturday will be temperature, the elevation of the rain line and the amount of precipitation received. If copious, sustained rainfall occurs into the higher elevations, the general avalanche hazard could increase to High in the afternoon. Wet slabs, which could release naturally, will be the primary concern on Saturday. The timing of the release of significant wet slabs is difficult to predict, and terrain where these avalanches could occur should be given a wide margin of safety. Glide avalanches might also release in favored terrain, and the chance of triggering dry slab avalanches up to two feet in depth will increase above 9,000 feet as the day warms. Most terrain below 7,500 feet is either bare or has undergone multiple melt-freeze cycles. However, with the second night of above freezing temperatures and rain on the way, steep terrain with a deep, isothermal snowpack should be avoided.
