(Fremont County, WY) – Very dangerous avalanche conditions are expected to develop across the Tetons today as a powerful winter storm moves into the region.
The Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center has issued a High (Level 4) avalanche danger rating above 7,500 feet for Tuesday, with Considerable (Level 3) danger at lower elevations. High danger is expected to continue into Wednesday.
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect from 5 a.m. Tuesday through 5 p.m. Wednesday.
Forecasters say heavy snowfall rates – potentially 1 to 2 inches per hour – combined with strong winds will rapidly increase avalanche danger throughout the day. High elevation totals of 8 to 18 inches by late Tuesday, with locally higher amounts possible, are expected. Some favored zones could see 2 to 3 feet of snow over 48 hours.
West to southwest winds of 20–30 mph, with gusts exceeding 50 mph along upper ridgelines, will create fresh wind slabs and further stress the snowpack.
Forecasters warn that avalanches may be triggered remotely from above, below, or adjacent to steep slopes. Slopes may fail after multiple riders have already crossed them. Natural avalanches could occur by the end of the day.
Forecasters emphasize that avalanche danger will increase incrementally as snowfall intensifies.
Even before the bulk of new snow accumulates, avalanches remain possible due to the existing buried weak layers. As snow piles up and settles into harder slabs, avalanches could become more widespread and unpredictable.
“Weird weather creates weird avalanches,” the forecast notes.
Backcountry users are urged to:
- Avoid steep slopes once snowfall accumulates.
- Stay clear of steep terrain overhead where natural or remotely triggered avalanches could run.
- Carefully plan routes with safe exits in mind.
- Give avalanche terrain a wide margin of safety.
Conditions are expected to remain dangerous through Wednesday as snowfall continues and winds increase.
Anyone traveling in the backcountry should check the latest forecast from the Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center before heading out.