Avalanche forecast

Tetons

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
4 · High
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
3 · Considerable
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Highlights

Human triggered avalanches are likely at all elevations today. Natural activity is also possible. Conditions will become more dangerous as the day progresses, as new snow, wind and a warming trend will make avalanches more likely. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended in the latter part of the day.

An avalanche warning is in effect until 6pm tonight. This warning will likely extend into tomorrow.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    New snow and wind over the last 3 days has created unstable conditions. Wind loaded terrain in the middle and upper elevations are the most likely places to encounter unstable snow in the form of wind slabs 1-3 feet thick. In the lower elevations expect to encounter isolated pockets of unstable snow up to 1 foot thick in steep terrain. While wind slabs are the most likely type of avalanche to trigger, don’t rule out slabs unaffected by the wind. Continued snowfall, winds and warming throughout the day will increase the size and sensitivity of these slabs.

    Remote triggers and wide propagation were noted yesterday. Expect more of the same today. When snow is behaving this way, it is time to dial back your terrain choices significantly. Avoiding convexities over 35 degrees will help to minimize the likelihood of triggering at your feet, board, skis or machine. In addition, it will be critical to be aware of terrain and other groups above. Recognize that avalanches may release in unusual places. Prepare to be surprised. Ensure your route choices allow for these surprises by allowing a wider buffer around terrain than usual.

    (12/28/2024)

    A widely propagated avalanche (500 feet across) observed south of Jackson Hole Mt Resort.  SE Aspect at 9,300 feet. Red lines are all crown lines. the starting point is labeled in green at the top.

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    Weak layers of snow buried 2-4 feet deep remain a possible threat today. One avalanche outside of the boundary at Grand Targhee resort was triggered by a skier 2 days ago on this deeper weak layer. Fortunately this person walked away unharmed. This problem exists predominantly on steep terrain (>35 degrees) in the upper elevations on the north half of the compass.

    The likelihood of this layer reawakening is not widespread yet, but this avalanche is a wake up call to keep this on your radar. Large triggers such as snowmobiles and groups as well as avalanches within the new snow increase the odds of activating deeper weak layers. Keep this in mind and apply this to how you travel in the mountains today.

    (12/27/2024)

    Skier triggered avalanche outside of the resort boudnary at Grand Targhee.  NE aspect at 9,500 feet. Approximate slab depth 2.5 feet.

    Photo: Daniel Nagy

Avalanche Discussion

A multi day storm has been impacting the region over the last 3 days. Snowfall has been heavy at times, with several lulls mixed in. This pattern has allowed the snowpack to occasionally adjust and prevent widespread activity from occurring. Winds over the last 36 hours have moved snow around and created slabs in both the mid and upper elevations. Warming today as well as light rain showers in the lower elevations will make natural activity more likely.

Expect the danger to be on the rise again as we move into the evening hours. Peak loading is expected to occur tonight. By tomorrow morning the cumulative SWE for this storm cycle will approach 3”. This will increase the chances of more widespread activity, both natural and human triggered. 

Thank you to all who have contributed observations during this cycle. This allows everyone to gain a better and more complete understanding of conditions. You can submit observations and photos HERE or text 307-264-3050

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