It is still possible for backcountry travelers to trigger large slab avalanches on weak layers buried at the base of the snowpack. While the likelihood of triggering these large slides is low, the consequences are high and these persistent slab avalanches remain the primary concern in this forecast area. The secondary concern is small surface slides from several inches of recent snowfall. These slides will be isolated to the highest elevations on steep wind-loaded slopes and could be problematic in extreme terrain. At the lowest elevations, avalanche activity is unlikely.
The faceted snow buried 2 to 4 feet deep in the snowpack is unpredictable, and several days may pass before an avalanche is triggered. It is important to evaluate the snowpack before committing to steep terrain. To manage this avalanche problem, follow safe travel protocols of only exposing one person at a time and avoid stopping in runout zones.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Overnight, the inversion will build and clouds will thicken over the valley. Temperatures will start off in the single digits at the lower elevations and teens in the mountains. By the afternoon, clouds should dissipate and temperatures will warm into the mid to upper twenties. Northerly ridgetop winds will be light.In the Southwest Trails and Teton forecast area, where the snowpack is mostly stable, the avalanche hazard will remain Low. At the upper elevations, recent snow lies over good sliding surfaces and backcountry travelers could trigger small avalanches that will be isolated to steep terrain.In the Togwotee Pass area, weak faceted snow at the base of the snowpack could still be reactive and the avalanche hazard will remain Moderate. Above 8,500 feet, backcountry travelers could trigger large avalanches 2 to 4 feet deep, and these slides could have severe consequences.
