Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
No rating
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Out of date — this forecast expired 13 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Dangerous avalanche conditions exist due to several days of snowfall, sustained strong west winds and a snowpack with poor structure. This scenario has created wind slabs at all elevations. Backcountry riders and skiers have the potential to trigger these slabs in steep, wind-loaded terrain. Deep persistent slabs, which lie upon faceted snow, also remain a concern. Any sustained periods of sunshine will make these slides more susceptible failure. Cautious route finding and conservative decision making is essential today.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Strong west to northwest winds have formed soft wind slabs on leeward slopes at all elevations. These slabs could be triggered with depths to two feet and could release naturally. Natural releases are possible, particularly near high peaks and ridge crests where the most significant loading has occurred, and where cornices may drop onto a slope. Failure of these wind slabs could step down to deeper weaknesses in the snowpack.

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    2–3

    Weak layers of faceted snow persist deep within the snowpack. Failure of these layers will produce very large avalanches with depths up to six feet. They could be triggered directly by backcountry travelers, step down from surface slabs or release naturally. The consequences of being caught would most likely be fatal.

Avalanche Discussion

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Another three to six inches of new snow is expected overnight. Mountain temperatures will stay steady overnight and increase into the mid to upper 20s during the day. Valley highs will reach into the upper 30s. Westerly ridgetop winds will range from 25 to 35 miles per hour.If forecast amounts of new snow are correct, the general avalanche hazard is expected to be CONSIDERABLE on Monday. However, if significantly more snow falls, the general avalanche hazard could remain HIGH. Warming temperatures and prolonged strong westerly ridgetop winds will continue to build wind slabs in leeward terrain. Backcountry travelers are likely to trigger these slabs with depths of one to three feet on steep, wind-loaded slopes. Natural activity is also possible. Failures of deep, persistent weak layers could produce very large avalanches and surviving one is unlikely. Large avalanche paths that are prone to heavy wind loading should be avoided.

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