Rapid snowfall and strong westerly winds will develop wind slabs on lee slopes below exposed ridges. Backcountry users could trigger these soft slabs which may increase to dangerous depths of eight to 12 inches by afternoon. Weak faceted snow persists within the snowpack and continues to be a concern on steep slopes. The potential for humans to trigger slab avalanches up to three feet deep on steep slopes will increase with new snow loading.
In some areas persistent slabs up to three feet deep lie upon depth hoar and could be triggered by the weight of a single rider or skier. Conservative terrain choices are warranted, especially during the warmest portion of the day.
Forecasted snowfall and winds will create easily triggered slabs on lee slopes at higher elevations. The depth of these slabs could increase to dangerous size, up to 10 inches. Be alert to snowfall and avoid steep, lee slopes in the afternoon.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )An area of low pressure and an associated cold front will quickly move across the region on Sunday. Snow is expected to develop overnight, become widespread and increase in intensity during the morning hours. New snow accumulations of four to seven inches are possible at the higher elevations by Monday morning. Southwest to west winds at 25 to 35 miles per hour will accompany this snowfall. Temperatures will be in the 20s.The new snow and wind will begin to create pockets of new soft slab on leeward aspects. These slabs could build to depths of six to 12 inches by Sunday afternoon. The general avalanche hazard is anticipated to be MODERATE in the Southwest Trails/Greys River area and at the higher elevations of the Continental Divide/Togwotee Pass and the Teton areas.
