Togwotee Pass

An avalanche warning has been issued. The general avalanche hazard is HIGH. Dangerous avalanche conditions exist and travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended. Strong winds and continued snowfall will continue to load an unstable snowpack that is poorly bonded to old snow surfaces. Medium to large avalanches are likely to release naturally and are very likely to be human triggered. Slab depths of four feet are possible.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )A long fetch of moisture extends into the Central Pacific and is being directed into the region by a strong west-southwest flow. Periods of moderate to heavy snowfall will continue overnight and through the day on Thursday. Accumulations of 5 to 10 inches are expected overnight with another 5 to 10 inches by sunset. Southwest winds will continue at 40 miles per hour with gusts to near 65 miles per hour. Temperatures will rise into the upper 20s. Strong winds, intense snowfall and slick old snow surfaces will combine to create dangerous avalanche conditions. Natural avalanche are likely and human triggered avalanches are very likely. Medium sized avalanches with slabs depths to three feet are anticipated. These avalanches could run into lower elevation run-out zones. The general avalanche hazard is expected to HIGH. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended.