The chance exists for skiers and riders to trigger pockets of soft slabs on steep, wind loaded terrain features above 9000 feet. Remember that even small slides can result in harsh consequences in unforgiving terrain such as cliff areas and couloirs. Avalanches are unlikely below 9000 feet today. Grand Teton National Park is closed. Practice social distancing and follow other current health care protocols.
At the higher elevations skiers and riders could trigger pockets of wind slab formed by southwest to westerly winds. These slabs could be 6 to 18 inches deep and large enough to injure or bury a person. These slabs will become more sensitive today in areas where they are rapidly warmed by direct sunlight and increasing temperatures.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Tomorrow looks to be mostly clear in the morning with increasing clouds in the afternoon in advance of a weak upper level trough approaching from the northwest that is to arrive Friday night. Mountain temperatures on Thursday are to reach the low twenties. Calm winds are to increase to fifteen to twenty mile per hour averages from the northwest later in the afternoon. The general avalanche hazard will be Moderate above 9000 feet where pockets of wind slab could be human triggered in steep wind loaded starting zones with depths to eighteen inches. Avalanches are unlikely below that elevation.
