Avalanche forecast

Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 8 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Dangerous avalanche conditions exist. A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through 11 AM, and rapid loading will continue during this period. In steep, wind loaded terrain above 7,500 feet, skiers and riders are likely to trigger wind slabs ranging in depth from 12 to 30 inches. Natural avalanche activity will also be possible. A cautious approach to terrain management along with conservative decision making will be mandatory for safe travel in avalanche terrain. Below 7,500 feet, backcountry travelers might be able to trigger an isolated pocket of soft slab in very steep terrain.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Since Thursday morning, close to two inches of snow water equivalent has been added to the snowpack. Strong southwesterly to northwesterly ridgetop winds, abundant snowfall and ample snow available for transport have combined to form small to large wind slabs above 7,500 feet. These slabs are forming on sun crusts, near surface facets and surface hoar. When evaluating the snowpack, be on the lookout for weak faceted snow, and determine how well the new snow is bonding to the underlying sun crusts. Whumphing and shooting cracks should be clear red flag indicators of dangerous conditions.

Avalanche Discussion

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning through 11 AM on Saturday. A strong Pacific weather system will bring moderate to heavy snowfall overnight. This system will be followed by a cold front which will bring another round of snowfall Saturday morning. Overnight lows in the mountains will be in the low teens, and temperatures are not expected to substantially increase during the day. Strong southwesterly ridgetop winds will veer to the northwest at 20 to 35 miles per hour. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be Considerable on Saturday. Strong winds and abundant snowfall will combine to form winds slabs on leeward slopes. In steep, wind loaded terrain at the higher elevations, skiers and riders are likely to trigger these slabs to depths of one to three feet. Natural avalanche activity will also be possible. A cautious approach to terrain management along with conservative decision making will be mandatory for safe travel in and below avalanche terrain.

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