The chance continues for backcountry riders and skiers to trigger slab avalanches to three foot depths in steep avalanche terrain. Avalanches below 7500 feet are unlikely.
Persistent slabs lie upon weak snow surfaces formed during a mostly dry period in January. These slabs lie in very steep terrain above 7500 feet and could have depths to three feet. Careful evaluation of terrain is required. Avalanches involving this layer were triggered by a group of snowmobilers in the Snake River Range on Thursday and in Grand Teton National Park by skiers yesterday.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )A well developed storm is tracking northeast from the Great Basin. This storm is to bring significant snowfall to the Salt and Wyoming ranges overnight through Saturday. Over a foot of snow is possible in these areas. The Teton and Togwotee Pass areas could see five to seven inches during this time. The avalanche hazard is expected to remain Moderate in the Teton and Togwotee Pass areas and will likely increase to Considerable in the Southwest Trails/Greys River area where significant loading and stronger winds are expected. Existing persistent slabs to four foot depths could be triggered in steep terrain. These slabs will become more sensitive as additional snowfall loads them during the day and the possibility to trigger new soft surface slabs will also develop in areas where significant snowfall and wind loading occur.
