Avalanche forecast

Tetons

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 10 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Conditions remain dangerous. Human triggered avalanches are likely and natural avalanche activity is possible. Cooler temperatures have decreased the potential for wet slide activity at the lower elevations. Careful snowpack evaluation, cautious route finding and conservative terrain choices are essential for safe travel in avalanche terrain.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2

    Strong southwest to west winds have formed dense surface slabs on leeward aspects. These slabs lie upon buried snow surfaces that were faceted during several days of bitterly cold temperatures, suncrust and areas of wind-packed snow. These slabs are likely to be easily triggered by skiers or riders who venture into steep wind loaded avalanche starting zones and cliff areas. These slabs are expected to be one to three in depth. Natural avalanche releases are possible.

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    2–3

    Strong winds continue to increase the load on persistent deep slabs. Some potential may persist for these slabs to fail. A larger trigger such a cornice drop, snowmachine or the release of a surface slab may be necessary to initiate the failure of one of these deep slabs. If triggered these slabs would involve the full depth of the snowpack and be very destructive.

Avalanche Discussion

Heavy snow is likely overnight and into the morning. Steady snow is likely throughout the day. Accumulations of 10 to 20 inches are expected by evening. Temperatures will remain in the teens and 20s. Southwest winds will continue at speeds of 25 to 30 with gusts over fifty miles per hour.Intense snowfall rates and strong winds will create very dangerous avalanche conditions. Large natural avalanches are likely. These conditions will increase the general avalanche hazard to HIGH. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended when the hazard is high.

Regions covered