Tetons

Approximately eight inches of new snow and strong winds have formed wind slabs at the mid and high elevations. These slabs lie upon surface hoar and firm snow surfaces and could be released by backcountry skiers and riders. Avalanches at low elevations are not expected today except for loose snow sloughing in isolated areas.

A most west flow will bring Pacific moisture and warm air into the region. Periods of heavy snowfall are expected to develop overnight and continue into the evening. This flow will favor the Teton Range and the southern ranges of Yellowstone National Park. Six to 12 inches of new snow are possible by Monday morning. This snowfall will be accompanied by strong west-southwest winds with gusts to 50 miles per hour and rising temperatures. The snow may mix with rain at the lower elevations. Temperatures will rise well into the 20s at the higher elevations and into the low 30s at the mid elevations.The new snow, wind, rising temperatures and buried layers of surface hoar will combine to increase the general avalanche hazard as the day progresses. Surface slabs will build on leeward aspects during the day and are expected to become very sensitive to human triggers in areas where rapid loading occurs. Due to the fickle nature of buried surface hoar remote triggering may occur on some slopes while other slopes my not be triggered until they have been crossed by multiple persons. These new surface slabs could reach depths of one to two feet during the day. The general avalanche hazard at the mid and upper elevations could increase to CONSIDERABLE in areas that experience sustained heavy snowfall and is likely be increasing but remain MODERATE in areas that get less snowfall. A lower hazard is anticipated below an elevations of 7,500 feet. Monitor conditions and adjust plans accordingly.