Avalanche forecast

Tetons

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

Heightened avalanche danger exists at upper elevations on very steep, wind-loaded slopes. Soft slabs up to 2 feet thick are possible, and avalanches could be large enough to bury or injure you. Look for drifted snow and watch for shooting cracks. The danger is greatest around cliffs and steep wind-loaded features like couloirs. Give cornices a wide buffer. Avalanches are unlikely below 9,000’.

Yesterday, four riders were caught and carried while ascending very steep, wind-loaded terrain. Thankfully, injuries were only minor.  This accident highlights the nature of the current problem and is a good reminder of how quickly conditions can change when we transition to wind-loaded slopes.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    The upper elevations of the Tetons received 10-12” inches of snow in the past 48 hours. Moderate winds have shifted from the south to west to northwest and redistributed this snow on various aspects. Soft slabs up to 2 feet thick have formed in wind-loaded terrain at upper elevations. Skiers and riders have the potential to trigger large avalanches if venturing into very steep terrain above 10,000’. Remember that even small avalanches can catch you off guard above consequential terrain. Look for signs of wind loading and pockets of unstable snow along upper elevation ridgelines, below cliffs, and in couloirs. Shooting cracks or stiff, hollow-sounding drifts are signs of unstable snow.

    Look for pillows, drifts, and shooting cracks to indicate unstable snow on steep terrain above 10,000 feet.

Avalanche Discussion

Up to a foot of snow fell in the last 48 hours. 24-hour total winds remained below 400 miles during this time period. The avalanche in the Spoon is a good reminder that total miles of wind are not the only indicator of avalanche danger, and slab size and location can easily catch us off guard when and where we are not expecting. Be vigilant when assessing steep, exposed terrain above 10,000 feet. Lower elevation danger remains much less, but remember that Low danger does not mean no danger. Isolated slabs could exist below 10,000 feet.  Another couple inches of snow could fall today, but this should do little to change the overall avalanche danger. Wet avalanche problems are not likely to be a concern today, given the relatively cold and mostly cloudy conditions that are forecasted. Still, it is April, and any periods of prolonged sun and increasing temperatures could destabilize snow surfaces. 

Several bear sightings have been reported this spring. Bear spray, group travel, and appropriate food storage should be considered when planning the day. Also, please remember that closed ski areas are now uncontrolled and could have avalanche problems.  Keep this in mind if skinning up or skiing on very steep ski area runs.

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