Dangerous avalanche conditions exist above 8,500 feet. There, skiers and riders are likely to trigger small to large, recently developed wind slabs in steep, wind-loaded terrain. Below 8,500 feet, where recent winds were less significant, smaller human triggered wind slabs will be possible. The release of one of these wind slabs could also initiate a large to very large deep persistent slab. Avoid steep, wind-loaded slopes; great skiing and riding can easily be found in conservative terrain.
Dense wind slabs, ranging in depth from one to three feet, were recently formed by strong southwesterly to northwesterly winds. These slabs reside above a variety of snow surfaces, which include surface hoar, near surface facets and sun crusts. Backcountry travelers could trigger these slabs on steep, wind-loaded slopes.
Above 8,500 feet, skiers and riders still have some potential of triggering deep persistent slabs with depths of three to five feet. These dangerous avalanches are more likely to occur on northwesterly through northeasterly aspects and could step down from the release of a wind slab. Involvement in one of these slides could easily have fatal consequences.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )After mostly dry conditions tonight, the flow aloft will back to the southwest and bring a shot of new snow to the region during the day. Overnight lows in the mountains will be in the mid-teens before rising into the mid-20s in the afternoon. Southwesterly ridgetop winds will increase to 20 to 30 miles per hour.On Saturday, the general avalanche hazard is expected to remain Considerable at the higher elevations in the Teton and Southwest Trails forecast zones. Skiers and riders could easily trigger recently developed wind slabs with depths of one to three feet in steep, wind loaded terrain. Lower down, where recent winds were less significant, smaller human triggered avalanches will be possible.The recent storm cycle produced less snowfall on Togwotee Pass, and Moderate hazard is expected on Saturday. Skiers and riders still have the potential of triggering similar wind slabs, and depths could be up to 30 inches in the most wind loaded terrain. In all forecast zones, persistent deep slab avalanches remain a concern. Skiers and riders still have some potential of triggering these slabs, which are more likely to occur on northwest through northeast aspects. The release of a wind slab could also initiate one of these slabs, and depths could reach five feet. Involvement in one of these slides could easily have fatal consequences.
