Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

The avalanche danger is Low today. Overnight temperatures were above 32 degrees, with freezing temperatures arriving in the early morning hours near 9,000 feet. Cooling temperatures and mostly cloudy skies will keep snow surfaces firm. Passing periods of sun may help the snowpack soften below 8,000 feet, though it is unlikely it will be enough to affect stability. Continue to be vigilant for signs of wet snow instabilities should the sun peak out. Sticky snow, wet enough to dampen your glove is an indicator that conditions are deteriorating. Wet loose avalanches are unlikely, but if triggered, are expected to be small. Isolated pockets of wind loaded snow exist in steep terrain above 9,000 feet. These may be found near ridge tops, at the bottom of cliffs and in cross loaded gullies. Smooth loaded terrain features and firm, hollow sounding snow are signs a wind slab may be present. The likelihood of triggering a pocket is unlikely, but if so, consequences could be substantial if in extreme terrain. Only expose one person at a time and ensure that safe zones are truly safe.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Clouds will increase overnight as a cold front arrives. Near 9,000 feet temperatures will lower into the twenties, and ridge top winds will be westerly at 15-20mph. In the Tetons and Togwotee areas scattered snow flurries are possible tomorrow, but accumulation will be light. Tonight, freezing temperatures will once again curtail the wet snow instabilities. Tomorrow near 8,000 feet temperatures may climb close to freezing, but with mostly overcast skies, expect the snow surface to remain firm. The wind slabs formed on March 5th have been tested by this warmup. The cooler temperatures will reduce the chances of triggering one of these slides, though this does not mean there will be ‘no’ danger. Wind loaded, high elevation terrain may be an area where an isolated pocket could be encountered. Tomorrow the avalanche danger will be Low.