The possibility for human triggered large to very large avalanches continues above 8500 feet today. Although these slabs have become less likely to trigger they could still fail to to larger loads such as groups of people or snow machines and some potential remains for failure to occur when a single person impacts a particularly thin and weak part of the snowpack. Deep snowpack evaluation is necessary to determine the extent of this weakness in specific areas. Conservative terrain choices are still recommended as the best way to avoid this avalanche concern. Avalanches are unlikely at the lower elevations today. An impressive avalanche was recently reported on gunsight pass in the Wyoming range. Photos and details can be seen on the event page of the website.
Some potential continues for skiers or riders to trigger hard slab avalanches with depths of three to eight feet in steep avalanche paths involving weak snow buried on December 5th. If triggered, avalanches could propagate long distances and are likely to result in serious injury or death. Remember that tracks on a slope are not an indication of stability.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )A very weak disturbance may provide a few flurries in the mountains overnight although accumulations will be negligible. Wednesday looks to be mostly clear with morning temperature inversions similar to the last two days. Highs are to reach the mid-twenties at all elevations. The general avalanche danger will remain Moderate above 8500 feet on Wednesday (and for the foreseeable future). In the Teton and Togwotee pass areas, deep hard slabs have progressed to the point of being stubborn and less likely to trigger. They still demand respect because if triggered they will be large to very large and are likely to carry severe consequences to anyone involved. As the slabs have become harder to trigger, they still remain susceptible to larger loads such as groups or snow machines although the slight chance continues for a single person to trigger their release when a particularly thin and weak spot on a steep slope is impacted. These slabs could have depths of three to eight feet in these areas. In the Togwotee Pass area, the danger is similar although avalanche events will be easier to initiate and smaller with depths of two to five feet. Avalanches below 8500 feet will be unlikely.
