Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE above an elevation of 8,500 feet and LOW below that elevation. At the higher elevations new snow and west winds have formed soft surface slabs up to 18 inches in depth. These slabs could be triggered on very steep slopes by the weight of a single person. Always travel one-at-a-time on slopes and avoid avalanche run-out areas when riders are above. Avalanches are unlikely below an elevation of 8,500 feet except in isolated pockets. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully. Identify and avoid areas of concern including steep, wind loaded slopes and terrain traps.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )An increasing westerly flow will bring increasing snowfall to the region by Tuesday afternoon. Temperatures will climb from morning lows near five degrees to the upper teens. Ridge top winds will be southwesterly at 25 miles per hour in the morning veering to westerly and increasing to 35 miles per hour by afternoon. In the Tetons the avalanche hazard is expected to be Moderate but will increase with strengthening winds then snow during the day. Soft slabs to three feet in depth rest on steep slopes above 8,500 feet. Backcountry travelers could easily trigger dangerous slabs or sloughs that could entrain large amounts of snow. Periods of sunshine could trigger loose sloughs, particularly under cornices or cliff areas.In the Togwotee Pass and Greys River areas the avalanche hazard will be Moderate. Backcountry users could trigger slabs to 12 inches in depth on steep, lee slopes or chutes at higher elevations.