Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
No rating
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Out of date — this forecast expired 9 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Persistent deep slab avalanches remain the primary concern on a variety of aspects above 7,500 feet. These large to very large slab avalanches could be triggered directly by skiers and riders or indirectly from the release of a small wind slab. As the day progresses, continued snowfall and strong winds will increase the likelihood, depth and volume of both small wind slabs and persistent deep slabs. Loose snow sluffs will also be possible in very steep, upper elevation terrain that is not significantly wind affected. Monitor weather conditions, and avoid large open bowls. Avalanches below 7,500 feet are not expected today except for on small, isolated features.

Avalanche problems

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    2–3

    The possibility continues for backcountry travelers to trigger persistent deep slab avalanches failing on faceted snow that developed during the December drought period. Large triggers, such as snowmobiles, are more likely to be able to impact this deeply buried weak layer. However, the weight of a single person could cause failure of this weak layer if a shallow trigger point is encountered. These slabs could propagate long distances, have depths to four feet and are likely to carry severe consequences to anyone involved.

Avalanche Discussion

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Light snow showers will linger overnight before steadier snowfall develops on Saturday as an upper level trough moves into the region. Overnight lows in the mountains will be in the upper single digits before rising to near 20 in the afternoon. Southwesterly to westerly ridgetop winds will increase to 20 to 30 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard is expected to remain MODERATE on Saturday. With increasing winds, new snow and ample snow available for transport, skiers and riders could trigger newly and recently developed wind slabs in steep, leeward terrain in the Tetons. These slabs could fail on density breaks within the recent snowfall, on sun crusts or down to the layer of surface hoar buried on January 19th. Persistent deep slabs with depths up to five feet continue to pose a threat to backcountry travelers in all forecast zones. Large triggers, such as snowmobiles, are more likely to be able to impact the deeply buried weak layer. However, the weight of a single person could cause failure of this weak layer if a shallow trigger point is encountered. These dangerous slabs could also step down from the release of a smaller wind slab. As new snow continues through the day, the hazard will slowly increase. Monitor weather conditions, and avoid steep, wind loaded slopes.

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