Weak snow lies buried in the snowpack on all aspects and elevations. Cold temperatures and time have decreased the likelihood of triggering avalanches on Togwotee, however skiers and riders still have the potential to do so in steep terrain. Evaluate the snowpack if venturing onto steep slopes and pay attention to obvious signs of instability such as feeling the snowpack collapse while travelling. New snow this afternoon is not expected to greatly change the avalanche danger, however, watch out for shallow wind slabs to form along ridge crests and cliff areas if snow arrives earlier than expected.
The snowpack is wrought with faceted snow formed during cold, dry period. Skiers and riders have the potential to trigger soft slabs up to two feet at the higher elevations and to one foot at the lower elevations.
Clear skies yesterday verified that many natural avalanches occurred in the Tetons during the recent storm event. These slides are all thought to have taken place between sunset on Thursday and sunrise on Friday. On Togwotee, less snow fell during the storm and less natural activity occurred. Do not confuse that with stability. The snowpack structure at Togwotee is weak and has poor structure. Slopes are underlain with faceted snow. Steep slopes could fail to the weight or impact of a single snowmachine or skier.
An initial report has come in from Willow Creek in the Southwest Trails area of an avalanche that was triggered yesterday. A party of 3 was reported to have been caught. 2 of the people were buried. The 3rd was partially buried but able to extricate himself and successfully rescue the other members of his party.
