Tetons

The avalanche danger today at upper elevations remains Moderate due to the unlikely potential of triggering a very large, hard slab avalanche. A weak layer of faceted snow deep in the snowpack is slowly becoming dormant however the potential to trigger this weak layer remains a risk. Probe for this weak layer and carefully evaluate steep, unsupported slopes. Triggering one of these weak spots is becoming more unlikely but doing so continues to carry very high consequences. Travel one at a time and choose your terrain carefully. At the mid and lower elevations, avalanches are unlikely and would be smaller in size and limited to steep, isolated terrain features.

A very weak system will cause a reduction in the inversion conditions by morning and could provide a trace or so of snow to the upper elevations. Expect mostly cloudy skies tomorrow with highs in the upper teens in the mountains while valleys reach the mid-twenties. West to northwest winds are to remain relatively light with 10 – 20 mph averages. The general avalanche danger will be low tomorrow in the Teton area where the chance for a deep slab avalanche is no longer thought to be a notable concern. The weak layer does still exist and could pose a real threat to people to if either a major storm impacts the area or if very large triggers such as large cornices impact a slope. Low danger does not mean no danger exists and safe travel techniques are always recommended in avalanche terrain. The danger will remain Moderate above 9000 feet in both the Southwest Trails and Togwotee Pass areas. The largest and most widespread avalanche activity occurred in the Southwest Trails area and although hard slabs have become unlikely to trigger, the possibility for a person hitting a trigger point is still real enough there to warrant respect and the continuation of a Moderate rating for a few more days. In the Togwotee Pass area the snowpack is weaker and although slabs are smaller they are more likely to initiate from the weight of a single rider or skier.