Avalanche forecast

Tetons

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Over the past four days, two to four inches of new snow has fallen every 24 hour period, and ridgetop winds have been strong enough for wind transport during much of this time frame. This slow, sustained loading event is being balanced out with the snowpack’s inherent ability to stabilize over time. Yesterday, a skier triggered an eight inch deep pocket of soft slab on a northerly aspect at 8,600 feet in the backcountry to the north of the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Similar slides are possible on steep, wind-loaded slopes at the mid and upper elevations. To avoid these slides, seek out terrain that does not have obvious signs of wind loading. The snowpack is mostly stable at the lower elevations and avalanches are unlikely.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    At the higher elevations, skiers and riders could trigger recently formed wind slabs one to two feet in depth when entering steep, avalanche-prone terrain that has obvious signs of wind loading. The likelihood of triggering these slides will decrease with a drop in elevation where the snowpack has been less impacted by the wind. Crusts, areas of mildly facet snow and density breaks all present opportunities for slab failure. When evaluating the snowpack, determine the degree to which the recent snowfall is bonding to sun crusts, and examine the potential for failure on density breaks and faceted snow. Avalanche activity on the early February rain crust is becoming increasingly unlikely.

Avalanche Discussion

A series of short wave low pressure troughs will bring periods of light snowfall through the week. These pulses of moisture will favor the Teton Range and the southern portion of Yellowstone National Park. In these areas 3 to 6 inches of new snow are possible during the next 24 hours. Lesser amounts are likely in other portions of our forecast area. Skies will remain cloudy. Temperatures will be in the single digits and teens. Winds will be southwest at 20 to 30 with gusts to 40 miles per hour across the higher ridge crests and mountain passes. The general avalanche hazard will continue to slowly increase. New soft slabs formed by gusty southwest winds will continue to build and are expected to be sensitive to human triggers. These soft surface slabs will pose a significant hazard in steep terrain and in cliff areas where even small slides can be very dangerous. Monitor conditions and make good terrain choices, especially in areas that have been favored by recent snowfall and gusty winds. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE at the upper elevations and transition to LOW at the lower elevations.

Regions covered