Togwotee Pass

Backcountry skiers and riders have the potential to trigger pockets soft slab in steep avalanche terrain above 9000 feet that is prone to wind loading. These slabs lie upon faceted snow and some crusts that formed during the dry and warm period that ended on December 5th. Backcountry travelers should evaluate the snowpack and terrain carefully and avoid features of concern where this wind loading is present. Below 9000 feet, avalanches are unlikely in the shallow early season snowpack.

( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Moderate to strong winds will continue this evening from the south before veering to the northwest and diminishing as the cold front passes. Snow will become heavier at times with rates around an inch per hour. By morning, expect temperatures in the lower teens with 15-20 mph northwest winds.Expect the avalanche danger to rise to and possibly exceed a Moderate danger rating above 8,000' in the Tetons and above 9,000' in other areas. The potential for natural avalanches in areas where the snowpack is most developed and continuous across the terrain may bring a Considerable rating if we exceed the upper end of the forecasted snowfall totals.