Avalanche forecast

Tetons

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Triggering a large hard slab avalanche that fails on buried weak layers is possible in very steep, north facing terrain above 8,500’ today. Signs of instability will likely not be present, so avoiding suspect slopes is key. Watch for shallow wind slab formation above 10,000’ as wind speeds increase this afternoon.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1.5–3

    Weak layers of snow including surface hoar and facets are buried 2-4 feet below the surface on shaded slopes. While the sensitivity of this layer is decreasing, riders may still be able to trigger a large, hard slab avalanche in very steep terrain over 35 degrees. Northerly aspects above 8,500’ are where this layer is weakest and where the majority of recent persistent slab activity has been observed. Signs of instability may not be present before triggering. Giving very steep, north facing slopes a wide margin is the best way to manage hazard right now due to the difficult to predict nature of this problem, and the high consequence of triggering an avalanche of this size. 

    Wind speeds are expected to increase slightly this afternoon. Be on the lookout for shallow pockets of newly formed wind slab if travelling above 10,000’ today. These slabs will be small, but could knock a rider off their feet in consequential terrain.

    2/28/2026

    A large avalanche south of JHMR that failed on weak snow in the middle of the snowpack. The avalanche was likely triggered by a piece of falling cornice. Most recent persistent slab avalanche events have occurred on the west and south side of the Tetons.

Avalanche Discussion

Warm, spring-like weather continues today. A good overnight freeze and some cloud cover today should limit wet snow instabilities. However, avoid steep, south facing terrain if surface crusts break down and the upper foot of the snowpack becomes wet and unconsolidated. 

While it certainly feels like spring has come early, cold snow and persistent weak layers remain on north facing slopes above 8,500’. These weak layers are slowly gaining strength, but have not changed as quickly as the weather. A large avalanches involving weak snow from January was reported only four days ago. The snow from our February storms has settled and become strong, making it difficult to impact the weak snow underneath. Despite this, there are still thin spots in the overlying slab where a rider may be able to trigger an avalanche. Very steep, north facing slopes are the bullseye for instability. Use caution and build some margin into your travel plans around these terrain features for the time being.

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