Above 8,000ft the avalanche danger is Moderate. With plenty of snow available for transport and wind speeds of 15-25mph, wind slab formation continues. Slabs have been mostly unreactive but triggering an avalanche remains a possibility today. Loaded terrain features near ridge crests like steep rollovers and cliff areas may have a smooth and pillow-like appearance. Below 8,000ft triggering an avalanche is unlikely though isolated pockets may exist.
Wind slabs are forming on the easterly half of the compass. Loaded pockets may have stiffening surface conditions and show signs of instability like shooting cracks and collapsing. Slab depths could break up to two feet deep. Carefully assess loaded terrain and have a plan to avoid it.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )The mountains will see another night of below zero temperatures. Westerly winds will continue overnight and will persist throughout the day averaging in the high teens. Clouds will be scattered tonight and tomorrow, with increasing cover tomorrow evening. There is a slight chance of scattered flurries tomorrow evening.Due to an abundance of snow available for transport and steady wind speeds, wind slab formation will continue above 9,000ft on the easterly half of the compass. Though these slabs have been largely unreactive thus far, continued wind loading may cause the balance to tip. Stiff surface conditions and shooting cracks are clues you have ventured onto a loaded pocket. Tomorrow in the Tetons the avalanche danger will be Moderate above 9,000ft and Low below that. Togwotee Pass and the Southwest Trails/Grey’s River areas will be Moderate above 8,000ft with Low danger below.
