Tetons

The avalanche danger is Moderate in the upper elevations today. An additional 3-5” of snow on top of the 8-12” that fell two nights ago has helped to build wind slabs in the higher elevations. These slabs are not widespread but may be found in steep wind loaded terrain. Loose snow avalanches are also a concern on steep sustained slopes in the upper elevations. In the mid elevations isolated pockets of shallow soft slabs may be triggered by skiers and riders in very steep terrain. In all other terrain avalanches are unlikely and the danger there is Low. Approach avalanche terrain cautiously today and be on the lookout for signs of unstable snow including recent avalanches, shooting cracks and whoompfing. Travel one at a time in suspect areas, utilize islands of safety and carry and know how to use rescue gear.

After a cold night marked by an inversion, expect cold temps and clouds tomorrow with highs in the mountains climbing to 5 to 15 degrees, north to south. Wind will back from south to northwest overnight but remain light, 10-15 mph. A trace to an inch of additional snow will add to the light density snow on the ground and may continue to drift, potentially creating some pockets of unstable wind slab overnight and tomorrow. These slabs should be small and limited in distribution across higher elevation terrain but may be sensitive particularly in those areas where they accumulate on a slick crust, likely on southerly, steep terrain. It will be worth looking for smooth, pillowy slabs and nearby snow depths to discern the size and sensitivity of these wind loaded areas before committing to ski or ride on them. Limited observations contribute some uncertainty to the size and distribution of these slabs which leads to another day of Moderate danger rating. The danger rating is Low elsewhere with loose, dry avalanches a possibility in very steep terrain.