Tetons

The snowpack is mostly stable. At the high elevations, a chance exists to trigger small, isolated pockets of slab in very steep cliff areas or extreme terrain. Be careful in the backcountry as many obstacles lurk just under the snow surface during these early season conditions.

By early Thursday morning, snowfall is expected to taper off with an additional two to four inches of accumulation. Southwesterly winds will lessen and veer toward the north, and mountain temperatures will drop into the single digits. By daylight, high pressure will begin to build over the region with partly cloudy skies. Mountain temperatures will range in the single digits to mid-teens. The avalanche hazard is expected to be Low. Above 9,000 feet, new snow and gusty winds will form small wind slabs in isolated pockets. It will be possible for backcountry travelers to trigger slab avalanches, six to twelve inches deep, on steep, wind loaded terrain features. These slabs could be more sensitive in areas where they have formed over a hard crust or faceted snow grains. Keep in mind the increased hazard with these small avalanches due to the thin snowpack and many obstacles on the slopes.