At the higher elevations strong winds have drifted snow onto leeward aspects and increased the avalanche hazard. Humans who venture into steep avalanche starting zones could trigger slab avalanches on old snow surfaces that are comprised of hard crusts or weak faceted snow grains. Evaluate the snow and terrain carefully and consider the consequences of triggering even a small avalanche. Avalanches are unlikely at the mid elevations. Lower elevation snow depths are quite shallow.
Pockets of wind slab formed by south-southwest to southwest winds could be human triggered on leeward aspects at the upper elevations. These slabs could be up to 2 feet deep.
Snowfall is to increase overnight and continue through tomorrow. The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for most of northwest Wyoming. Over a foot of new snow could fall in favored mountain locations by Wednesday morning. Southwest winds are to have averages of 20- 30 mph during the day on Tuesday. Temperatures during the day are to be on the warm side, with highs at the upper elevations in the mid-twenties while valleys reach the mid-thirties. The forecast will be Moderate above 9000 feet. The size and sensitivity of wind slabs will increase throughout the day as strong winds continue to load avalanche starting zones. These slabs could have depths to over 2 feet. Backcountry travelers should analyze terrain and the snowpack in a specific location before making the decision to ski or ride any upper elevation starting zone. Below 9000 feet avalanches are unlikely although isolated pockets of wind slab can be found just below that elevation in areas particularly prone to wind loading. Avalanches are unlikely at low elevations the snowpack is very shallow and stable.
