JACKSON, Wyo. — After a long stretch of low avalanche danger, warm weather has created conditions for wet snow slides.
According to the Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center (BTAC), avalanche danger is considered moderate for the second day in a row. Yesterday, a handful of BTAC observations noted avalanches in the Teton region, including activity on Teewinot’s Crooked Thumb, the southeast face of Taylor Mountain and in Waterfalls Canyon.
“Above-freezing temperatures last night and sunshine today will create a wet snow avalanche problem again,” reads BTAC’s Friday forecast for the Tetons. “This easy-to-identify problem will be most dangerous in steep, rocky, and confined terrain or above terrain traps. Seek out firmer snow or cooler slopes when snow surfaces become soft and wet. There is a potential for naturally occurring wet slides so consider your exposure to terrain above you.”
Before venturing into the backcountry, be aware of the inherent risks, especially given the weather. Experts advise avoiding travel in any terrain with slope angles above 25 to 30 degrees, under steeper slopes or on ridge lines. The most dangerous avalanche slope angles are generally between 30 and 45 degrees.
See BTAC for further information and advice.
