Snake River Range

Avalanche conditions are generally safe and large avalanches are unlikely at all elevations. Small avalanches, less than a foot deep, may be triggered on isolated wind loaded terrain features at the highest elevations. Watch for pockets of unstable wind drifted snow and give terrain near or under cornices a wide buffer.

A passing winter storm is expected to deliver 3-6 inches of snow to the upper elevations of the Snake River Range by this evening. This snow will be accompanied by moderate winds out of the southwest. Today’s snowfall will do little to change the overall avalanche danger and the rating has remained at Low. However, isolated pockets of wind slab less than a foot deep could be found on very steep and wind loaded slopes at the highest elevations. These slabs will be small but could catch someone off guard in consequential terrain. Any fresh wind slabs will be sitting on a slick crust from the previous warm period and could slide easily. Be on the lookout for active wind loading and isolated pockets of unstable snow along upper elevation ridge lines, below cliffs, and in couloirs.

Temperatures are forecasted to rise above freezing at the low elevations today. Despite the warm temperatures, wet snow problems are not expected to be an issue given the lack of sunshine today. Still, it is a good idea to monitor the snow surface down low as the day warms. Avoid very steep slopes if you are sinking deeply into slushy wet snow.