Avalanche forecast

Tetons

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

New snow and moderate winds continue to form wind slabs on steep, leeward terrain at the upper elevations. These wind slab avalanches could be human triggered and entrain snow increasing in volume. Loose snow avalanches are also possible on steep slopes, where the new snow has fallen on sun crusts. If caught, these small slides could have significant hazards especially in cliff areas, steep chutes, and terrain traps. Evaluate terrain carefully noting areas of loading and features of concern. At the lower elevations, avalanches are unlikely.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Slabs formed by yesterday’s strong winds and overnight snowfall can be triggered in steep terrain at the mid and upper elevations. As the winds switch direction, from the southwest to west, cross-loaded slopes and newly formed wind slabs could be found on a variety of aspects. These newly formed slabs could be 2 feet in depth and could be up to 3 feet if these slab avalanches involve snow from earlier in the week. Be wary of wind drifted snow above cliffs and in couloirs. At lower elevations, small slab avalanches up to a foot in depth could be human triggered on isolated terrain features.

Avalanche Discussion

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning beginning at 8 PM tonight and continuing through 11 PM on Sunday. The flow aloft will back to the west, strengthen and bring a stream of Pacific moisture to the region. This scenario will produce moderate to heavy snowfall tonight and through the day on Sunday with mountain accumulations of 12 to 18 inches by tomorrow evening. Westerly ridgetop winds will increase to 30 to 45 miles per hour. Mountain temperatures will slowly rise overnight before reaching a high near 20 during the day.The general avalanche hazard is expected to increase to Considerable above 7,500 feet as dangerous avalanche conditions develop. Abundant snowfall and strong winds will continue to add depth and volume to wind slabs in leeward terrain. As the day progresses, skiers and riders will be increasingly likely to trigger these slabs on steep, avalanche prone slopes. These slabs could reach depths in excess of three feet by tomorrow evening, and natural activity will also be possible. Travel in avalanche terrain will require expert snowpack and terrain evaluation skills. Monitor the impact of the storm system and be willing to alter your travel plans if conditions warrant. Below 7,500 feet, backcountry travelers could trigger similar slab avalanches up to 18 inches deep in steep, wind loaded terrain. There, the general avalanche hazard is expected to increase to Moderate.The Wyoming Department of Transportation will be closing Teton Pass for avalanche mitigation at noon on Sunday. Parking will also be prohibited between the Idaho state line and the Wilson gate beginning at 8 PM tonight.

Regions covered