Avalanche forecast

Tetons

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

It will be possible to trigger slabs in very steep terrain in the upper elevations today. A lack of significant loading over the last four days has allowed the snowpack to gain strength. Below 9,000 avalanches are unlikely except in steep isolated pockets. While overall snow depths have increased over the last week, coverage remains shallow. Due to the thin coverage, involvement in an avalanche carries the potential for significant injury. Evaluate terrain and the snowpack carefully and consider the consequences prior to committing to a slope.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    Slabs formed by strong winds during recent snowfall lie upon crusts and faceted snow that was buried on December 5th. This weak layer is widespread at the upper elevations and reaches into the upper portion of mid elevations on west through north to east aspects. Although these slabs have become less reactive, they could still be human triggered in very steep terrain with average slab depths of one to two feet.

Avalanche Discussion

An approaching storm system with significant moisture will bring increasing clouds Wednesday morning and snow is expected to start falling in the afternoon. Mountain temperatures are to reach the mid twenties and ridgetop winds will be westerly with 15 to 25 mph averages during the day with higher winds during the evening. As little snow expected during daylight hours, the avalanche danger on Wednesday will continue to be moderate above 9000 feet and low below that elevation. Riders and skiers have the potential to trigger slabs with depths of one to two feet in very steep terrain that lie upon old weak snow layers. These slabs have become less likely to fail over the last several days. Below 9000 feet the danger will be low, however isolated pockets of slab could be triggered, especially between 8500 and 9000 feet.

Regions covered