Tetons

The General Avalanche Hazard at the mid and upper elevations is MODERATE. Surface slabs formed during recent snow and strong Southwesterly to Westerly winds may be triggered by backcountry skiers and riders today in steep avalanche terrain. These slabs could have depths up to three feet and will very in hardness. These slabs will become more sensitive this afternoon when they are weakened by sunlight and rapidly warming temperatures. At the low elevations the hazard is LOW this morning but will increase to MODERATE this afternoon when isolated pockets of shallow slabs will become more sensitive due to warming.

A ridge of high pressure will build over the Rockies through Sunday, pumping in a much warmer Pacific air mass into the area. Over night lows should dip into the teens, and then rise into the high 20s in the mountains, and near 40 in the valley. Ridge top winds are forecasted to be in the 20s out of the Southwest.AVALANCHE HAZARD FORECAST FOR THE TETON, TOGWOTEE PASS, AND SOUTHWEST TRAILS AREAS:Before the heat of the day, the general avalanche hazard will be MODERATE at the high elevation and LOW below 9,000 feet. As temperature increases and the sun begins to affect the snowpack, the avalanche hazard will increase to MODERATE at all elevations. On sunlit aspects, surface wet slides could sweep riders over cliff bands, or bury them in terrain traps. On shaded aspects above 9,000 feet, wind slabs are the primary concern.Backcountry users are advised to consult area specific forecasts issued every morning as new information may become available and unexpected weather can change conditions.