Togwotee Pass

The general avalanche hazard is HIGH. New snow and strong winds have created new soft surface slabs up to two feet deep. With more new snow and strong winds in the forecast naturally released avalanches are likely today and could step down to deeper buried weak layers. On Tuesday a snowmachiner was buried in an avalanche in the upper portion of the Split Rock Creek drainage. This rider triggered a 18 inch to two foot deep surface slab on a northeast aspect of very steep slope above a terrain trap. His body has still not been recovered. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended today.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )A winter storm warning is in effect through 8 AM Thursday. A Pacific storm will continue to bring moisture into western Wyoming tonight and Thursday morning. The snow will taper off to snow showers by late morning with significant accumulations expected above 7,500 feet. Warm temperatures below 7,500 feet will reduce snow accumulations in the valleys. A cold front moving through after midnight will bring the snow level down to the valleys. AVALANCHE HAZARD FOR THE TETON, TOGWOTEE PASS/CONTINENTAL DIVIDE AND GREYS RIVER/SOUTHWEST TRAILS AREASThe general avalanche hazard at the mid and upper elevations (above 7,500 feet) is expected to rise to HIGH by Thursday morning. Unstable surface slabs up to several feet deep are likely to form. Spontaneous releases are likely and could step down to buried weak layers. Below 7,500 feet the general avalanche hazard is expected to rise to CONSIDERABLE. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended. Highways may be impacted. Backcountry users are advised to consult area specific forecasts issued every morning as new information may become available and unexpected weather can change conditions.