Togwotee Pass

The general avalanche hazard is CONSIDERABLE. Strong winds have drifted available snow increasing the size of potential avalanches. The snow lies upon an unstable base comprised of persistent weak layers of faceted snow and slick crusts. Dangerous slab avalanches up to four feet in depth continue to be sensitive to human triggers and could release naturally. Conservative decisions and good terrain evaluation and route finding skills are essential for safe travel in avalanche terrain.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Light snow is forecasted for the mountains Wednesday with 9,500 foot elevation high temperatures in the low twenties. Winds along the summits will be southwest to westerly at 25 to 30 miles per hour.Strong winds moved available snow to develop large drifts in lee areas. The cooler temperatures and firm surface snow will make it more difficult to trigger slides but resulting avalanches are likely to be large and very dangerous. The general avalanche hazard will be CONSIDERABLE in the Tetons, Greys River/Southwest Trails and Continental Divide/Togwotee Pass areas. Conservative decisions regarding route selection are essential for safe travel in avalanche terrain. Steep open slopes and areas with snow deposition from wind or cliffs should be avoided.