Strong winds and dense snow have created dangerous avalanche conditions. On steep avalanche prone slopes at the higher elevations (above an elevation of 8,000 feet) large to very large slab avalanches are likely to be triggered by humans and could release naturally, especially if the sun appears. Temperatures remained mostly above freezing in the valleys. Wet snow avalanche hazard are a potential hazard on steep terrain features at the lower elevations. Wet snow avalanche hazards could also be a threat at the higher elevations as temperatures increase and especially if the clouds break and the sun comes out. Expert terrain and snowpack evaluation skills are essential for safe travel in avalanche terrain.
At the higher elevations destructive dense slab avalanches could release naturally or be triggered by skiers or riders. These slabs could be up to three feet deep and could run long distances. Conservative terrain choices and a cautious approach to avalanche terrain and run out zones are warranted.
Wet loose and web slab avalanches are possible on steep terrain features. The potential for wet slides to occur on steep slopes will increase as the day warms and could rapidly increase on steep sunlit slopes. These wet slides could gouge down to the ground in areas where the snowpack is isothemal.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Snow will increase this evening as the next quick moving system moves in from the west. This next pulse of moisture will be more widespread and will bring another 4 to 8 inches of snow to the mountains and 1 to 2 inches to the valleys. Snowfall will decrease in the later morning hours with lingering snow showers over the mountains in the afternoon. Temperatures will be in the upper teens and 20s in the mountains and in the upper 20s to low 40s in the valleys were snow will mix with rain. The strong west to southwest winds will gradually decrease to speeds of 10 to 20 miles per hour with higher gusts.At the higher elevations wind slabs are a significant hazard. On steep slopes dense wind slabs one to three feet in depth could be triggered by skiers and riders. Evaluate terrain and the snowpack carefully. Wet snow avalanche hazards will also be a potential concern on very steep slopes at all elevations as the day warms. Monitor conditions on and under very steep slopes for wet snow avalanche hazards as the day progresses. The general avalanche hazard is expected to be moderate from an elevation of 9,000 to 10,500 feet and low, below that elevation. Higher hazard likely exists in the central portion of the Teton Range above an elevation of 10,500 feet. Up there the terrain is steep and complex and large natural avalanches are possible.
