Togwotee Pass

The general avalanche hazard is CONSIDERABLE. Strong southwest winds have formed new soft slabs up to two feet in depth. These slabs lie upon light density that fell earlier in the week and are likely to be easily triggered by humans who venture onto steep wind loaded slopes. These slabs could step down to deeper layers of weak faceted snow and crusts formed earlier in the season.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )The ongoing snowfall is expected to remain heavy through the late evening hours. As the night progresses temperatures at 10,000 feet will drop into the upper single digits. On Friday snow and wind will taper down during the early morning hours. Light snow will persist into the afternoon; temperatures at 10,000 feet will remain in the upper single digits. Ridge crest winds will be northwesterly at 15 to 20 miles per hour.The avalanche warning issued for Thursday will expire tonight. The general avalanche hazard for Friday is expected to be CONSIDERABLE above 7,500 feet. Dangerous slab avalanches up to five feet in depth could be human triggered or release spontaneously. Below 7,500 feet the general avalanche hazard is expected to be LOW. Excellent avalanche skills are necessary for safe travel in avalanche prone terrain.