The avalanche danger is Moderate above 8,000ft today. Though the chances of triggering a wind slab are reducing, it is still possible. Evaluate conditions carefully, look for signs of unstable snow like recent avalanches and shooting cracks. There is a slight chance for dry loose avalanches on steep, sheltered slopes. These small sluffs can become big problems if in consequential terrain. Below 8,000ft avalanches are unlikely except in isolated pockets. Areas that have received higher snow totals will be more susceptible to these avalanche hazards.
Wind slabs have formed on aspects leeward to westerly winds. If triggered, soft slab depths could be up to two feet thick. Limit exposure to this hazard by avoiding terrain features that have signs of wind loading, like steep rollovers and pillows near ridge tops.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Overnight temperatures will dip into the negative teens. Tomorrow will be cold and mostly clear with temperatures rising only to the single digits near 9,000ft. Wind direction will veer to the north northwest and will average in the teens. Above 9,000ft the risk of triggering a wind slab is reducing. The light density snow is likely to be transported easily even with low wind speeds. Loading wind pillows and terrain features near ridge crest are places that can harbor this instability. Watch for shooting cracks in wind stiffened snow. On steep sheltered slopes, there is a slight chance for dry loose avalanches. Carefully assess the old snow/new snow interface and have a plan for sluff management. Areas that have received higher snow totals will be more susceptible to these avalanche problems. Tomorrow the avalanche danger will be Moderate above 7,500ft and Low below that. Togwotee Pass and the Southwest Trails/Grey’s River areas will be Moderate above 8,000ft with Low danger below.
