Above 8500 feet, the chance continues for backcountry riders and skiers to trigger slab avalanches involving weak snow that was buried in early December. Many slides have been triggered over the last week in the Togwotee pass area and although these slabs have become less sensitive over the last two days, similar events could occur today. Be particularly wary of terrain where even small slides could have dire consequences and avoid high, wind loaded terrain features where larger unstable slabs could lurk. Avalanches below 8500 feet are unlikely today.
Soft to hard slab avalanches with depths of 2 to 4 feet could be triggered in steep avalanche terrain. These slabs will fail on a widespread layer of old weak snow that formed in late November and early December. Backcountry travelers should use caution today and be ready to adjust travel plans when warning signs, such as collapses and shooting cracks, are encountered.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )In advance of the approaching storm that will bring a return of snow to the area on Monday night, temperatures are to warm and cloud cover will increase throughout the day. Southwest winds will have averages between 20 and 25 miles per hour. The chance for natural avalanche activity is negligible however the possibility for human triggered large to very large avalanches continues at the upper elevations of the Teton and Southwest Trails forecast areas where the danger will be considerable. These slabs have gained strength and might release only when a particularly thin or weak spot on a slope is impacted. Tracks are not an indication of slope stability. The Togwotee Pass area will be rated as Moderate where slabs could still be triggered remotely. Although slabs in this area may be smaller, they could still cause serious consequences, particularly in terrain traps. Avalanches below 8500 feet are unlikely.
