Dangerous avalanche conditions exist above 8500 where the danger has evolved to the low range Considerable. Although natural avalanche activity is now unlikely, backcountry riders or skiers still have the potential to trigger large or very large avalanches in very steep terrain involving weak snow buried in early December. It is important to note that tracks on a slope are not an indication of stability and failure could still occur when a person impacts a particularly thin and weak spot in the snowpack. Careful snowpack evaluation can help to determine the presence and extent of the persistent weak layer and cautious route finding remains the best way to avoid involvement in a high consequence slide. Below 8500 feet, avalanches are unlikely today.
In very steep terrain, the potential continues for humans to trigger hard slab avalanches involving failure of weak snow layers buried on December 5th. If failure occurs, avalanches could have average slab depths of three to five feet.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )In advance of the approaching storm that will bring a return of snow to the area on Monday night, temperatures are to warm and cloud cover will increase throughout the day. Southwest winds will have averages between 20 and 25 miles per hour. The chance for natural avalanche activity is negligible however the possibility for human triggered large to very large avalanches continues at the upper elevations of the Teton and Southwest Trails forecast areas where the danger will be considerable. These slabs have gained strength and might release only when a particularly thin or weak spot on a slope is impacted. Tracks are not an indication of slope stability. The Togwotee Pass area will be rated as Moderate where slabs could still be triggered remotely. Although slabs in this area may be smaller, they could still cause serious consequences, particularly in terrain traps. Avalanches below 8500 feet are unlikely.
