The avalanche danger will rise from Low to Moderate during the day at all elevations. Wet avalanches will be possible as warm temperatures and direct sun cause the surface snow to lose stability. With forty-degree temperatures possible near 10,000 feet, timing will be key. Start early and plan to exit steep terrain before the wet snow becomes gloppy. Wind loaded snow at the upper elevations is becoming less reactive, but it still may be possible to trigger a slab in isolated areas.
As the day warms, it will be possible to trigger wet snow avalanches on steep, sun lit terrain. Roller balls, pin wheels and damp, sticky snow are signs the snow is losing stability. Plan to move to colder aspects as the day goes on. Though these slides will start small, they are capable of entraining large amounts of snow and can carry a person through hazardous terrain.
Wind slabs one to two feet thick that formed 3 days ago exist in steep terrain at the upper elevations. Loaded slopes near ridge tops and below cornices are possible locations to encounter this hazard. Snow may be loaded further down a slope or on cross loaded terrain features. Carefully assess loaded terrain features and watch for signs of instability like shooting cracks. Remember that any slide can have dangerous outcomes in consequential terrain.
Clouds will increase overnight as a cold front arrives. Near 9,000 feet temperatures will lower into the twenties, and ridge top winds will be westerly at 15-20mph. In the Tetons and Togwotee areas scattered snow flurries are possible tomorrow, but accumulation will be light. Tonight, freezing temperatures will once again curtail the wet snow instabilities. Tomorrow near 8,000 feet temperatures may climb close to freezing, but with mostly overcast skies, expect the snow surface to remain firm. The wind slabs formed on March 5th have been tested by this warmup. The cooler temperatures will reduce the chances of triggering one of these slides, though this does not mean there will be ‘no’ danger. Wind loaded, high elevation terrain may be an area where an isolated pocket could be encountered. Tomorrow the avalanche danger will be Low.
