Avalanche forecast

Tetons

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

The potential for human triggered avalanches will remain possible today. Areas that have been exposed to wind or received new snow may have increased sensitivity to avalanches. Carefully evaluate terrain while watching for signs of instability such as cracking or collapsing.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    Persistent weak layers formed in November are buried in the snowpack 1-3 feet. The sensitivity of these layers has decreased over time as the slab depth above them has increased. The middle and upper elevations contain firm cohesive slabs 2-3 feet deep, while the lower elevations generally lack the firm slab quality. Areas with higher amounts of new snow or wind slabs may increase the sensitivity of triggering these persistent weak layers. 

Avalanche Discussion

Yesterday and last night the Tetons experienced moderate winds out of the south and southeast. Snowfall amounts varied drastically, with certain areas of the Tetons receiving 6 inches within the last 24 hours. Increased loading of new snow yesterday continuing through today could stress the persistent weak layers. Wind loading occurred on specific terrain features yesterday that may not be commonly loaded. These winds will shift more northerly today, so carefully reevaluate terrain for wind deposition. Potential wind slabs could be more problematic in areas with a shallow snowpack and more sensitive persistent weak layers. This same scenario played out yesterday with rapid loading and a likely natural avalanche on Mt Oliver (See attached photo).

Over the last week, persistent weak layers have decreased in reactivity. The complicated part is that multiple field observations yesterday are still showing unstable test results in snow pits with full propagation. This snowpack contains a complex structure that will require patience and respect especially during periods of rapid changing snow, wind or temperature. 

Regions covered