Tetons

Temperatures at high elevations starting in the mid twenties early this morning are to quickly rise above freezing today. The Avalanche hazard will also quickly rise to Considerable at the mid and high elevations. Slabs to three feet deep lie on suncrusts and firm snow. These slabs will become sensitive to human triggers and may release naturally in the form of dense or wet slabs this afternoon. Wet loose slides will also become possible at all elevations today. Two well known local ski mountaineers died after triggering an avalanche on an ascent in Grand Teton National Park on Wednesday. The location and more information about the event can be viewed on the Avalanche Event Map page of our website or by viewing the following video link: http://youtu.be/qjVi6_HAi1w

Another day of high pressure and sunny skies is expected on Saturday. Mountain temperatures are to again reach near the forty degree mark. Winds are to be light. The general avalanche hazard is expected to increase to Considerable during the day. Sunlight and warm temperatures will again stress the slab strength in very steep avalanche terrain. In the afternoon backcountry travelers will have an increased likelihood of triggering these slabs that could have depths to three feet. These slabs have the potential to release naturally in cliff areas and are most prominent in terrain above 9000 feet but can be found at lower elevations in isolated areas.