Tetons

At the mid and upper elevations unstable slabs one to three feet in depth persist in some steep avalanche starting zones. In places these slabs lie upon weak layers of faceted snow and could be triggered by backcountry users. These instabilities are most likely to be found on steep northerly to easterly aspects with fresh deposits of wind blown snow. Avalanches are unlikely at the lower elevations due to shallow snow depths. The Teton Mountain Lodge is hosting a benefit for the avalanche center after skiing on Saturday with a slide show by Chris Figenshau.

A weak storm system will bring a few inches of light snow to the mountains on Saturday. Temperatures will be slightly warmer with daytime highs rising into the teens. Ridge crest winds will back to the southwest and increase in the afternoon to 25 to 32 miles per hour with higher gusts. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be MODERATE. Below 7,500 feet avalanches are unlikely due to shallow snow depths. Shallow surface slabs could be human triggered on steep slopes with fresh deposits of wind blown snow. Deeper hard slabs could be human triggered on steep slopes underlain by weak faceted old snow.