Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
No rating
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Highlights

New snow yesterday combined with sustained moderate south wind created firm, cohesive slabs that were reactive to human triggering. These slabs will remain reactive today with continued transport of snow increasing slab depths. Look for obvious signs of instability such as cracking, stiffened surfaces and drifts. Although less likely, loading of new snow and wind slabs will stress buried weak layers with the possibility of triggering a larger avalanche.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Yesterday the zone experienced moderate to strong S/SW winds. Expect to see reactive wind slabs of varying depths 1-2 feet. These slabs will be found in the middle and upper elevations across an array of aspects due to shifting wind direction. Use careful assessment in exposed terrain in the middle and upper elevations, especially above the treeline. Wind loaded slopes could also increase the likelihood of triggering a large avalanche on buried weak layers.

     

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1.5–2.5

    Lingering beneath a hard slab lies weak layers buried 2-3’. The Feb 18th layer is our main concern.  This layer is composed of a facet, crust combination found on solar aspects. Many areas of Togwotee also harbor weak, sugary facets across all aspects. New snow and fresh wind slabs will stress these buried weak layers and increase the chance of triggering a large avalanche. Terrain with an increased likelihood of triggering one of these avalanches includes:

    • Shallow snowpack: Weaker buried layers of snow .
    • Wind-affected: Terrain where wind has formed firm, cohesive slabs of snow.
    • Steep: Over 35° slopes.

Avalanche Discussion

Powder Fever Hits Record Temps

Life in the snow globe continues as the atmospheric river storm produced up to 6 inches of snow favoring certain locations on Togwotee. Storm slabs were reactive yesterday, but cold temperatures last night with settlement should decrease their reactivity. Our attention is focused on the middle and upper elevations where winds have formed reactive wind slabs. Wind slabs will be the primary concern while you are traveling in terrain today. Exposed terrain will contain a mix of wind scoured and loaded slopes. Seek powder riding in that sheltered terrain while these wind slabs are still touchy and reactive today. The best snow will likely be in the safest locations. 

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