The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE above an elevation of 8,000 feet. On northerly aspects above 9,000 feet, skiers and riders could trigger persistent slabs failing on faceted snow near the base of the snowpack with depths of two to three feet. Backcountry travelers could also trigger recently developed wind slabs up to 18 inches in very steep, wind loaded terrain. These surface slabs could step down to the basal weak layer as well. The general avalanche hazard is LOW below 8,000 feet and avalanches are unlikely.
Weak, faceted snow persists at the base of the snow pack on northerly and shaded aspects above an elevation of 9,000 feet. These dense slabs, two to three feet in depth, could be triggered by skiers and riders on this persistent weak layer. Previous tracks on these slopes may not be an indication of stability.
Strong west-southwesterly to northwesterly winds over the weekend created dense wind slabs up to 18 inches in depth on leeward aspects. Backcountry travelers could trigger these slides in steep, wind loaded avalanche terrain. These slabs are mostly likely to be found in exposed terrain near ridgelines. Avoid slopes where the snowpack has a hollow, drum-like feel.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )The combination of a stream of Pacific moisture and an arctic cold front will produce periods of heavy snowfall overnight with four to eight inches of new snow in the mountains possible by Thursday morning. Cloud cover will then decrease during the day. Overnight lows up high will be in the mid teens before rising to near 20 during the day. Ridgetop winds will veer to the north at 10 to 20 miles per hour.Above 7,500 feet, the general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE on Thursday. On northerly aspects above 9,000 feet, skiers and riders could trigger persistent slabs failing on faceted snow near the base of the snowpack. Abundant settlement followed by cooling temperatures may balance out the increased load in respect to the likelihood of triggering, but the consequences of being caught have increased with the higher density and depth of these two to four foot slabs. Backcountry travelers could also trigger recently developed wind slabs one to two feet deep in steep, wind loaded terrain. These surface slabs could step down to the basal weak layer as well. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be LOW below an elevation of 7,500 feet. The Grand Targhee Ski Resort will be closed to uphill traffic in preparation for a Friday opening.
