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

Strong southwest winds this morning will continue to form wind slabs on leeward slopes at the upper elevations. These wind slab avalanches could be triggered by humans and entrain loose snow increasing in volume. 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 mid and lower elevations, avalanches are unlikely.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Slabs formed by strong winds and snowfall during the past week can be triggered in steep terrain above 9,000 feet. As the winds switch direction, from the northwest yesterday to southwest today, slopes may be cross-loaded and newly formed wind slabs could be found on a variety of aspects. These slabs could be up to 3 feet in depth. Be wary of wind drifted snow above cliffs and in couloirs. At the mid and lower elevations, small slab avalanches up to a foot in depth could be human triggered on isolated terrain features.

Avalanche Discussion

As today’s weather system exists to the east, winds and snowfall will diminish overnight. Winds are expected to be southwest to west at 35 to 45 miles per hour in the mountains and 15 to 25 at the lower elevations. Light snowfall tomorrow is expected to range from 1 to 3 inches in the mountains before snowfall intensity increases Saturday evening. Temperatures will start in the single digits and climb into the teens and 20s in the mountains. Strong winds will continue to load leeward slopes above 8,000 feet. There, the avalanche hazard is expected to be moderate and winds slab avalanches could be triggered by backcountry travelers in steep, wind loaded terrain. These slab avalanches could range in depth from 1 to 3 feet. If skier or riders are caught, these slab avalanches could be dangerous especially in exposed terrain or terrain traps, such as gullies and benches. Shooting cracks are indications wind slabs are forming, and when these signs are present avalanche terrain should be avoided. The general avalanche hazard below 8,000 feet is low, where small avalanches up to a foot in depth could be human triggered.

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