A slight potential continues to trigger wind slabs at the high elevations in steep avalanche terrain this morning. Sunlight and above freezing temperatures will further weaken these surface slabs and also provide the possibility for wet slides at all elevations this afternoon. Identify areas of concern where warming may present a problem and beware of travel under steep avalanche paths.
Pockets of wind slab lie at the upper elevations. These wind slabs could have depths to 18 inches and be human triggered in wind loaded avalanche starting zones, steep couloirs and cliff areas. These slabs will become more sensitive to human triggers as the day progresses and could release as dry or wet slabs this afternoon.
Wet loose slides are possible on steep slopes on a variety of aspects after snow surfaces soften. These slides will be most likely occur in very steep terrain where calm winds and warm temperatures allow snow surfaces to get particularly soft. This activity could release naturally or be human triggered. Yesterday, a natural wet slide occurred on the south side of Albright in Grand Teton National Park at an elevation of 7600 feet.
Pacific moisture will bring some cloud cover overnight and during the day on Saturday. A few flurries may be possible in the afternoon. Overnight lows in the mountains will be in the low 20s before rising to near freezing during the day. Westerly ridgetop winds will range from 15 to 25 miles per hour.On Saturday in the Tetons and Greys River area, the general avalanche hazard is expected to be Low in the morning and could rise to Moderate in the afternoon. In very steep, wind-loaded terrain that has not gone through melt-freeze cycles, skiers and riders might be able to trigger an isolated pocket of wind slab. If periods of sunshine occur during the day, the threat of wet slides could return as the day warms. Persistent weak layers will keep the hazard at Moderate in Togwotee Pass forecast zone. There, backcountry travelers could trigger slabs one to three feet deep.
