Tetons

Backcountry travelers could trigger sensitive soft slabs to depths up to three feet in steep, wind loaded avalanche terrain. Deeper hard slabs, which lie upon weak faceted snow at the base of the snowpack, could also be triggered or step down from surface slides. Yesterday, several avalanches were skier triggered in the backcountry surrounding the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort on northeast, east, and southeast aspects with one skier being caught. Also yesterday, two skiers triggered, were caught, went for a long ride, and partially buried on the west face of Taylor. These close calls are good reminders that careful snowpack evaluation, cautious route finding, and conservative decision making are essential for safe travel in the backcountry today. Avalanches are unlikely below 7,500 feet.

Northwest flow aloft will continue to bring scattered flurries to the region on Monday. Accumulations are expected to remain light with two to four inches by Monday evening. Overnight lows in the mountains will be near 10 before rising into the mid 20s during the day. Ridgetop winds will be westerly at 10 to 20 miles per hour.The General Avalanche Hazard at the mid and upper elevations in the Tetons is expected to be Considerable on Monday. In the Southwest Trails/Greys River area, the General Avalanche Hazard is also expected to be Considerable. Backcountry travelers could trigger sensitive soft slabs to depths up to 30 inches in steep, wind loaded avalanche terrain. Deeper hard slabs, which lie upon weak faceted snow at the base of the snowpack, could also be triggered or step down from surface slides.The General Avalanche Hazard in Togwotee Pass/Continental Divide area is expected to be Moderate on Monday. Avalanche Conditions are similar to the two other forecast areas, but with smaller slab depths.