Avalanche forecast

Sawtooth & Western Smoky Mtns

Sawtooth Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Generally stable conditions exist, and large avalanches are unlikely. You could trigger loose avalanches on steep slopes that face the sun if surface crusts turn mushy. While unlikely, it's not impossible to trigger slab avalanches in steep, shady, upper elevation terrain. 

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    While large Wet Loose avalanches are unlikely today, they won't be impossible to trigger if surface crusts break down while receiving direct sunlight.  These avalanches are most likely during the heat of the day on slopes that face the sun. They often initiate near the bases of trees, rocks, and cliffs. Although slow-moving, these avalanches are surprisingly powerful and difficult to escape. They may also trigger larger wet slab avalanches (example) as they move downhill.

    Additional Discussion - Dry Slabs: Dry slab avalanches remain a concern in steep, previously wind-loaded terrain. The likelihood of triggering one is highest above approximately 9,000 feet on NW-N-NE-facing slopes. 

    Large Wet Loose avalanche in the Northern Sawtooths near Williams Peak. NE 9000'.

    Photo: Sawtooth Avalanche Center

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