(Fremont County, WY) – The Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center issued an Avalanche Warning for the Togwotee Pass area yesterday, December 28, which is in effect until 6 PM today, December 29.
The warning will likely extend into tomorrow, the update also advises.
The current avalanche danger is rated as “Considerable (Level 3),” meaning human-triggered avalanches are likely in steep terrain above 8,000’, and natural avalanches are also possible. 
Togwotee Pass has received significant snowfall the past few days, and three-day accumulation totals are “sitting around a foot with more expected today and tonight,” the forecast advises. “The snowpack in this region was particularly shallow and weak before this storm and the new snow is adding considerable weight to it. Expect to find instability in the new snow, but also remember that weak snow lurks below and could easily create a large avalanche.”
“New snow and moderate winds over the past 72 hours have created unstable conditions,” the update also informs. “Human triggered avalanches are likely in terrain steeper than 30 degrees. Slabs will be up to 1 foot deep in sheltered areas, and up to 2 feet deep in wind-loaded terrain at the upper elevations. Temperatures warming to near freezing will increase the sensitivity of these slabs today. Natural avalanches are possible.”
“Carefully evaluate the recent snow for signs of instability. Cracking, collapsing, and recent avalanches are all obvious signs of instability. Give steep terrain a wide berth as you travel and avoid crossing, or lingering under avalanche paths. Groomed snowmobile trails that travel under steep terrain should be approached with caution given the potential for natural avalanches initiating above and impacting the trails.”
The Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center requests that if you see avalanche activity today, please consider submitting an observation. “Observations allow everyone to gain a better and more complete understanding of conditions.”
The National Weather Service recommends carrying the following gear when recreating in slide-prone areas, in addition to heeding official warnings and advisories:
- Transceiver: so you can be found if covered by the snow
- Shovel: so you can dig out your partner
- Probe: so you can locate someone who has been covered by the snow
More safety information is available from the American Avalanche Center.