Tetons

The general avalanche hazard will increase as the day progresses. At the upper elevations strong winds and increasing temperatures will create unstable slabs up to two feet in depth that are likley to be easily triggered by skiers or release spontaneously. At the mid elevations unstable slabs up 18 inshes deep could be triggered by humans in steep wind loaded avalanche starting zones. At the lower elevations warm temperatures and rainfall will increase the potential for loose wet slides on steep banks, roadcuts and hillsides as the day progressess.

A winter storm warning is in effect through 8 AM Thursday. A Pacific storm will continue to bring moisture into western Wyoming tonight and Thursday morning. The snow will taper off to snow showers by late morning with significant accumulations expected above 7,500 feet. Warm temperatures below 7,500 feet will reduce snow accumulations in the valleys. A cold front moving through after midnight will bring the snow level down to the valleys. AVALANCHE HAZARD FOR THE TETON, TOGWOTEE PASS/CONTINENTAL DIVIDE AND GREYS RIVER/SOUTHWEST TRAILS AREASThe general avalanche hazard at the mid and upper elevations (above 7,500 feet) is expected to rise to HIGH by Thursday morning. Unstable surface slabs up to several feet deep are likely to form. Spontaneous releases are likely and could step down to buried weak layers. Below 7,500 feet the general avalanche hazard is expected to rise to CONSIDERABLE. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended. Highways may be impacted. Backcountry users are advised to consult area specific forecasts issued every morning as new information may become available and unexpected weather can change conditions.