Approximated 3" of snow fell overnight on Togwotee Pass. This will add some mass to the existing wind slab problem as well as to the persistent slab problem that involves old weak snow layers. Watch for any sign of instability such as whoomphing/collaps while travelling as well as for surcase slabs that may represented by shallow shooting cracks. The storm predicted to impact the area over the next few days will likely heighten the avalanche danger on both sides of the Continental Divide.
Shallow wind slabs involving new and recent snow could be triggered with depths to a foot in steep leeward terrain. These surface slabs lie upon sun-crusts, wind crusts, and near surface facets. Avoid steep terrain where snow looks to have been built up by wind in the recent day or two.
Persistent weak layers formed during dry periods are widespread throughout this zone. This weakness is profound in shallow areas, and although not reactive recently in deeper areas, it still deserves serious consideration. The incoming storm system may increase the sensitivity of these weak layers, They will be particularly sensitive in large fetch areas of westerly storms and in areas where they can impacted by moving wind slabs.
(2/11/2023)
Brush Creek Avalanche showing a surface snow avalanche and additional, weaker snow layers breaking near the ground.
Poor snow structure with slow accumulation and therefore little avalanche activity has been the theme this season at Togwotee. That could change if significant snowfall occurrs tonight through Wednesday. Remember this weakness and what the snow surfaces were that were buried last night. In many places the recent surface was a crust or near surface facets. Both of these surfaces could result in sensitive conditions as the next storm arrives.
