Tetons

The general avalanche hazard at the mid and upper elevations is CONSIDERABLE today where very sensitive surface slabs up to eighteen inches will be easily triggered in steep terrain. These slabs lie upon low density snow and hard crusts formed by last weeks inversion period and could release naturally in some locations where todays wind, additional snowfall and warming greatly loads these slabs. At the low elevations the hazard is MODERATE today where pockets of slab could be human triggered, particularly later in the day when warm termperatures increase the hazard.

Temperatures will drop into the mid teens tonight ahead of a weather system that will bring strong westerly winds at 40 mph to the region. Snow will begin in the early morning hours and continue until afternoon. Six to ten inches of snow are expected by evening. Daytime highs at nine to ten thousand feet will be in the low twenties. At low elevations temperatures will rise above freezing and there is a chance for rain to develop during the day.AVALANCHE HAZARD FOR THE TETON, TOGWOTEE PASS / CONTINENTAL DIVIDE AND GREYS RIVER / SOUTHWEST TRAILS AREAS:The chance of triggering slides will be similar to today (CONSIDERABLE) at Mid elevations and may increase at Upper elevations. Any time and settlement benefits will be offset by plentiful new snow driven by strong winds and warm temperatures. At Low elevations the hazard may rise above MODERATE as natural wet loose slides are likely particularly near the valley bottom and Canyons. Any rainfall will increase the hazard more rapidly. Backcountry users are advised to consult area specific forecasts issued every morning as new information may become available and unexpected weather can change conditions.