2016-17 W. Central Montana Avy conditions thread---"NO RATING"

Scott · Feb 28, 2017

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Avalanche Advisory for February 28, 2017

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The current avalanche danger is MODERATE in the west central Montana backcountry. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully; identify features of concern. Human triggered avalanches are possible.
Good morning, this is Travis Craft with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for February 28, 2017. This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas, expires at midnight tonight and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
Mountain temperatures range from 8 F to 19 F in the region. Winds are 12 mph with gusts of 22 mph out of the S in the Bitterroot. Point Six, in the northern part of the advisory area, winds are 3 mph with gusts of 13 out of the S. Snotels are not reporting this morning.
Logan and I toured in the Rattlesnake yesterday. Tim and Greg took the sleds to Morrell Mountain in the southern Swans. Matt and Josh were at Lost Trail Pass over the weekend teaching a level 1 avalanche course. Logan and I observed a very settled snowpack. Tim and Greg saw loose dry releases. The primary concern at Lost Trail Pass was a sensitive shallow wind slab that propagated. The advisory area has received a significant amount of new low-density snow. The storm came in warm and progressively cooled producing a right side up snowpack. Logan and I observed buckling in the snowpack which is a sign of the new snow bonding to the old snow. In the Swans and Rattlesnake, we were not able to get any of our persistent weak layers to propagate in our pit tests.
The primary avalanche problem is loose dry avalanches. There is a significant amount of new snow. These sluffs could knock a skier or rider off their feet or machine and carry them into a terrain trap.
The second avalanche concern is wind slabs. There is plenty of new snow available for transport. The wind slabs we observed were in very isolated places. Wind slabs were very sensitive to triggers in the southern portion of the advisory area on Sunday. Identify wind loaded terrain and avoid it.
There are some weak layers in our snowpack. We have not been able to get propagation on these layers in our pit tests. Dig a pit before committing to any steep terrain. There was a skier triggered avalanche in the Rattlesnake on Friday. The skier triggered a small wind pocket near a rock outcrop and was knocked down and strained through some trees. The skier sustained bruises and some muscle damage and was not buried. The slide was 20 feet across, 1 foot deep, and ran 60 yards. The take-home message is that if you are in terrain above 30 degrees, it can slide.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
Snow showers dwindling today and then more showers tonight. Continued precipitation through Wednesday. Increasing winds for the next couple of days. Look for the avalanche danger to increase with additional loading and wind.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. I will issue the next advisory on March 02, 2017.
Ski and ride safe.

The post Avalanche Advisory for February 28, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Mar 2, 2017

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Avalanche Advisory for March 2, 2017

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The current avalanche danger is CONSIDERABLE in the west central Montana backcountry. Careful snowpack evaluation, cautious route-finding, and conservative decision-making are essential today. Human triggered avalanches are likely.
Good morning, this is Travis Craft with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for March 02, 2017. This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas, expires at midnight tonight and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
Mountain temperatures range from 17 F to 25 F in the region. Winds are 11 mph with gusts of 16 mph out of the SSW in the Bitterroot. Point Six, in the northern part of the advisory area, winds are 26 mph with gusts of 31 mph out of the W. Snotels went offline at 100 am and are not reporting this morning. The northern part of the advisory area picked up between .4 and .6 inches of water in that time. The southern region received .2 inches of water.
Logan and I toured in the Rattlesnake yesterday. Tim and Dave went to Lolo Pass. We all observed recent wind loading overnight. Logan and I got localized cracking on leeward slopes. We saw sensitive shallow wind slabs on South aspects. We also found thick, dense slabs on West slopes. All of us found significant amounts of snow available for transport. The storm has come in with wind averaging 30 mph and gusts in the 40 mph range. The stability in our snowpack has dramatically changed. With continued loading and wind expect the avalanche danger to rise steadily. Wind slabs will continue to increase in size and sensitivity. We had a week of good stability. Now is the time to pump the brakes and let snowpack adjust to the new load and wind.
The primary avalanche problem today is wind slabs. These slabs are on leeward aspects. They are very sensitive to triggers. Identify wind loaded terrain and avoid it.
The secondary avalanche concern is storm slabs. There has been significant new snow. The storm is getting warmer which means there is cold low-density snow below the heavier denser snow. We call this an upside down snowpack. It will take time for the new snow to bond with the old snow.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
The next chance for precipitation will be this weekend. Warmer temperatures and then a cold front moves into the area Sunday. With this pattern expect the avalanche danger to stay the same.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. Logan will issue the next advisory on March 04, 2017.
Ski and ride safe.

The post Avalanche Advisory for March 2, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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mtn mike on boost · Mar 6, 2017

I have taken a few avy classes and they will tell you straight up that most deaths come when conditions
are considerable not high. you are never safe up there and should always be evaluating and re evaluating slopes as the day goes on. I was in a slide @ baker the same day so it just goes to show that even with training a lot of us are still at risk by the decisions we make up there. it may have been an epic day to ride but certainly not worth dying for
RIP mike

Scott · Mar 6, 2017

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Avalanche Advisory for March 4, 2017

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The current avalanche danger in the West Central Montana backcountry is CONSIDERABLE on steep wind loaded terrain. Careful snowpack evaluation to identify wind loaded areas will be critical as human triggered avalanches are likely. The avalanche danger on all other terrain is currently MODERATE.
Good morning, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for March 04, 2017. This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas, expires at midnight tonight and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
Mountain temperatures this morning range from 28-33 degrees as another active weather system works its way into West Central Montana. Overnight an additional trace-3 inches of snow fell and added up to .2 inches of SWE. Currently, winds at Point 6 are 17mph gusting to 35mph from the WSW, and at Deer Mountain are 8mph gusting to 14mph from the S.
Travis and I rode around Seeley Lake yesterday and found significant signs of wind slab development above 6,000ft. We also saw an old crown and flank from a significant natural wind slab failure in the last 2-3 days. With a large load of light snow for transport and a couple of windy days, wind slabs have grown and will be suspect. Avoid steep terrain over 6,000 ft that shows signs of wind loading.
Observers near Lost Trail pass yesterday found storm slabs to be the greatest concern on non-wind loaded terrain. Travis and I also observed storm slabs to be a secondary concern. A density change in the storm snow in the Seeley area propagated in stability tests yesterday. This density change is from a brief warm up during the last storm cycle. This will need a another day or two to finish bonding but a new storm slab will start forming today. Storm slabs vary in thickness and cohesion across the region, take a few minutes to dig and see how the snow is bonding and to identify if the new load is adding to the concern before committing to avalanche terrain.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
Snow is expected through the day today and temperatures look to cool as the next cold front pushes into the region later today and into tonight. Snow totals of up to a foot are in the forecast over the next few days. The avalanche danger will be increasing on all terrain today and through the weekend.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. Travis will issue the next advisory on March 07, 2017.
Ski and ride safe.
The post Avalanche Advisory for March 4, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Mar 6, 2017

mtn mike on boost said:
I have taken a few avy classes and they will tell you straight up that most deaths come when conditions
are considerable not high. you are never safe up there and should always be evaluating and re evaluating slopes as the day goes on. I was in a slide @ baker the same day so it just goes to show that even with training a lot of us are still at risk by the decisions we make up there. it may have been an epic day to ride but certainly not worth dying for
RIP mike

Thank you for posting that. The risk is ALWAYS there.

Scott · Mar 7, 2017

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Avalanche Advisory for March 7, 2017

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The current avalanche danger is CONSIDERABLE in the west central Montana backcountry. Careful snowpack evaluation, cautious route-finding, and conservative decision-making are essential today. Human triggered avalanches are likely.
Good morning, this is Travis Craft with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for March 07, 2017. This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas, expires at midnight tonight and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
Mountain temperatures range from 7 F to 21 F in the region. Winds are 9 mph with gusts of 17 mph out of the SSW in the Bitterroot. Point Six, in the northern part of the advisory area, winds are 20 mph with gusts of 33 mph out of the WNW. The area received 3 to 7 new inches of snow. The new snow had SWE’s ranging from .3 to .5 inches of water.
Josh and I took the sleds to Lolo Pass yesterday. Ryan and Steve both were in the Rattlesnake. Dudley was at Yurt Ski in the southern Swan. Josh and I observed active wind transport of snow to leeward slopes. Ryan found depth hoar that propagated in a shallow snowpack(Video). Steve was able to get propagation on Near Surface Facets above the last rain crust in a PST. We have received over 3 feet of snow in the last storm cycle.
The primary concern is wind slabs. Winds have loaded leeward slopes. Identify these slopes and avoid them. Overnight winds gusted into the 40’s in the northern part of the advisory area and gusted into the mid 30’s in the Bitterroot. There was plenty of snow available for transport.
The second avalanche concern is storm slabs. With new snow overnight, the snowpack needs time to adjust to the new load.
The final avalanche problem is persistent weak layers. Steve got propagation on the Near Surface Facets above the last rain crust. Ryan got propagation on the basal facets on the ground. Dig a pit to assess these layers before committing to any steep slope. Avoid rocky outcrops and cliff bands that are likely trigger points.
Sunday, two skiers were caught in an avalanche near Stonewall Mountain by Lincoln, Montana outside of our advisory area. One skier was partially buried while the other was caught in the trees. Lewis and Clark SAR were called and assisted with the rescue. We will update with more information as it becomes available.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
The forecast calls for significant amounts of snow for tonight through Friday. Snow levels are predicted to rise above 5000 feet by Thursday. With these conditions, the avalanche danger will increase.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. I will issue the next advisory on March 09, 2017.
Ski and ride safe.

The post Avalanche Advisory for March 7, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Mar 9, 2017

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Avalanche Warning for March 9, 2017

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An avalanche warning is in effect for the west central Montana backcountry. The current avalanche danger is HIGH. Very dangerous avalanche conditions are present. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended today. Human triggered avalanches are very likely, and natural avalanches are likely. Avoid runout zones.
Good morning, this is Travis Craft with an avalanche warning for March 09, 2017. This avalanche warning will expire at 0600 am on March 10, 2017. The warning will be extended or terminated at that time.
This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
Mountain temperatures range from 14 F to 35 F in the region. Winds are calm in the Bitterroot. Point Six, in the northern part of the advisory area, winds are 10 mph with gusts of 14 mph out of the WNW. The area received 6 to 14 new inches of snow. The new snow had SWE’s ranging from .6 to 1.7 inches of water. In the last 48 hours, the advisory area received significant loading with 1.5 and 3.1 inches of water and strong winds.
Greg and I toured in the Rattlesnake yesterday. Montana Snowbowl Ski Patrol did control work yesterday. Greg and I found 1 to 3-foot wind slabs that were very sensitive to triggers and released with lots of energy. This storm started out cold and then got warmer. We have an upside down snowpack with low light density snow below the heavier more dense snow. We were able to get propagation on the density change which was 12 inches thick. The Snowbowl Ski Patrol had very sensitive wind slabs and were able to get 1 to 2-foot crowns in the new storm snow with explosives.
The primary avalanche problem is wind slabs. The storm had winds primarily from the South, and then it shifted with winds to the Northwest and West. We had sustained gusts in the mid 30’s, and 40’s the last two days. Winds are lower today but are still loading slopes with the new snow. The wind slabs we found in the Rattlesnake yesterday were very sensitive to triggers and released with energy.
The second avalanche concern today is storm slabs the area has received significant new snow. The snowpack is upside down, and we were able to get propagation on the storm snow interface with the old low-density snow. The snowpack needs time to adjust to the new load.
The snow line will increase this morning in the Bitterroot to 5500 feet. On Friday expect the snow line to increase in elevation in the other mountain ranges in our advisory area. This will add a snow and rain mix to the snowpack and add additional loading to an already unstable snowpack. The new avalanche problems will be wet slabs and wet loose releases in the mid and low elevations in the west central Montana backcountry. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended. Avoid Runout zones.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
More snow is predicted today and tonight. Winds will be calmer. The avalanche danger will increase with additional loading on an already unstable snowpack. Snow lines are predicted to increase in all ranges by Friday morning bringing a snow rain mix to 5500 feet and above. This will add wet slabs and wet loose releases to our avalanche problems in the mid and low elevations in the west central Montana backcountry.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. We will issue an advisory on Friday, March 10, 2017.
Ski and ride safe.
The post Avalanche Warning for March 9, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Mar 13, 2017

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Avalanche Warning for March 10, 2017

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An avalanche warning is in effect for the west central Montana backcountry. The current avalanche danger is HIGH. Very dangerous avalanche conditions are present. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended today. Human triggered avalanches are very likely, and natural avalanches are likely. Avoid runout zones.
Good morning, this is Travis Craft with an avalanche warning for March 10, 2017. This avalanche warning will expire at 0600 am on March 11, 2017. The warning will be extended or terminated at that time.
This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
Mountain temperatures range from 32 F to 35 F in the region. Winds are 15 mph gusting to 25 mph out of the SSW in the Bitterroot. Point Six, in the northern part of the advisory area, winds are 07 mph with gusts of 32 mph out of the W. The area received 3 to 4 new inches of snow. The new snow had SWE’s ranging from .4 to 1.8 inches of water. In the last 72 hours, the advisory area received significant loading with 2.3 and 4.3 inches of water.
Logan and I went to the Rattlesnake yesterday. We observed several natural slides that occurred during the night and witnessed a natural release while we were out. We got propagation in our pits on the interface of cold, dry snow and the heavier dense snow 2 feet deep. We also got localized cracking and collapsing from our skis. Overnight winds have picked up and are depositing new wind slabs on leeward slopes. Rising snow lines are creating a wet slab and wet loose release problem from 7000 feet and below. A public observation from Lolo Pass found similar data(Lolo Pass Observations). The snowpack is very touchy right now, it is recommended to avoid traveling in avalanche terrain and to avoid runout zones.
The primary avalanche problem is storm slabs. There is continuing loading happening today, and the snowpack needs time to adjust to the new load.
The second avalanche concern is wind slabs. Winds picked up yesterday at 1300 hours and are loading leeward slopes. There are fresh wind slabs deposited on old wind slabs which were touchy to triggers yesterday.
The third avalanche problem is from 7000 feet and below. The snow line is increasing, and some mid and low elevations did not freeze overnight. With the addition of rain to our snowpack look for this additional loading to create widespread instabilities. Wet slabs are very unpredictable. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended today. Avoid runout zones.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
Light snow storms tapering to showers by afternoon and gusty winds. The snowpack will see some additional loading. By Friday night temperatures should be freezing to 4000 feet, and this will help to stabilize the snowpack. The avalanche danger will remain the same. The snowpack needs time to adjust to the new load.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. Logan will issue an advisory on Saturday, March 11, 2017.
Ski and ride safe.

The post Avalanche Warning for March 10, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Mar 13, 2017

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Avalanche Advisory for March 11, 2017

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The avalanche warning has expired this morning, and the current avalanche danger in the West Central Montana Backcountry is still HIGH on wind loaded terrain above 7,000 feet. The avalanche danger is CONSIDERABLE on all other terrain. Below 7,000 feet the avalanche danger is CONSIDERABLE but will move towards HIGH as the day warms up and the sun starts to affect the snow surface. Conditions are variable and careful evaluation is critical to recreate safely in the backcountry today.
Good morning, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for March 11, 2017. This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas, expires at midnight tonight and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
This morning mountain temperatures are just below freezing. Winds are currently 13 mph gusting to 18 mph from the WSW at Point 6, and are 7 mph gusting to 11 mph from the SSE at Deer Mountain. Most of the region did not accumulate snow overnight but a few isolated showers deposited a trace to 1 inch of snow at various locations.
Travis was in the Rattlesnake yesterday and found wind slabs to be the greatest concern. Active transport was reported and wind slabs were touchy on leeward terrain. Matt and I were in the southern Bitterroot yesterday and we observed wind loading beginning later in the day with strong winds moving snow at upper elevations. Yesterday afternoon in the Bitterroot winds were sustained in the 20’s and gusting to 30 mph and were gusting up to the 40’s at Point 6. The primary avalanche concern today will be wind slabs above 7,000ft. With lots of new snow for transport and strong winds, wind slabs have gotten large and touchy. Recreating on or below wind loaded terrain will be dangerous as wind slabs continue to be reactive.
The next greatest concern is wet slab avalanches. Matt and I observed more than a dozen natural wet slabs and glide avalanches and a very saturated snowpack to about 7,000 ft in the Southern Bitterroot and Ryan found saturated snow near Lolo Pass. As the temperatures warm today, wet slabs will be likely below 7,000 feet, especially on aspects heavily affected by the sun. Be cautious of slopes on the southern half of the compass later in the day and at lower elevations.
On all other terrain the greatest concern will be storm slabs. In the Rattlesnake and Southern Bitterroot we found the storm slab to propagate on two different layers of colder snow sandwiched in the storm slab. Freezing overnight and time will have helped to bond these layers but with multiple layers propagating in tests, conservative decision making will be critical today. Be sure to carefully assess the snow when choosing where to recreate to see if the weakness at the snow interface is still reactive.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
Today looks to have a more settled weather pattern, and mountain temperatures will be warmer in the southern half of the advisory area. Snow is expected again tonight and the mountains could see an additional few inches of heavy dense snow by Sunday morning. The likelihood of wet avalanches will increase through the day today while the likelihood of triggering the storm slabs and wind slabs will stay the same today.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. I will issue the next advisory on March 14, 2017.
Ski and ride safe.
The post Avalanche Advisory for March 11, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Mar 14, 2017

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Avalanche Advisory for March 14, 2017

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The current avalanche danger in the West Central Montana Backcountry is MODERATE. Heightened avalanche conditions exist on specific terrain features. There are three very distinct problems that are isolated to specific terrain. Carefully evaluate snow and terrain to identify features of concern.
Good morning, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for March 14, 2017. This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas, expires at midnight tonight and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
This morning mountain temperatures are in the mid 30’s and snow line is between 6,500-7,500 feet across the advisory area. Rain through the night has been widespread across the region but has been more concentrated in the northern portion of the advisory area. The region received up to .6 inches of water so far. Winds this morning are out of the SW at Point 6 and are sustained at 10 mph and are gusting to 14 mph. At Deer Mountain the winds are 11 mph gusting to 18 mph from the S.
Travis and I were up in Seeley yesterday and found three very distinct problems that are dependent on what terrain you may be on. Dudley was up at Yurtski over the weekend and found similar problems with variable distribution as well in the Southern Swan Range.
The first avalanche problem today is wet slabs. With warm temperatures overnight and rain on snow to 6,500-7,500 feet wet slabs are possible at lower elevations. Wet slabs are hard to predict and require conservative decision making. Steer clear of steep terrain where the snow surface is wet and if you see signs like roller balls or glide cracks, find different terrain to recreate on.
The second avalanche concern is wind slabs on leeward terrain above 7,000 feet. Wind slabs started developing over the latter half of the weekend and were found to be large and suspect in isolated areas in Seeley yesterday. Later in the day as the storm system made its way into the region we observed a significant increases in wind and observed active snow transport. Be cautious of wind loaded terrain at upper elevations and keep in mind that the wind slabs can be large in isolated pockets.
The third concern today is storm slabs. Most of the precipitation today is falling as rain but at upper elevations in the southern Missions and Swan ranges the storm slab from last week was found to propagate at upper elevations and on cooler aspects. The slab is propagating on a layer of cold snow that fell earlier in the last storm cycle. There are also multiple graupel layers that further complicate the reactivity of the storm slab in some locations. Storm slab avalanches are isolated to very specific terrain so take the time to dig and see if the storm slab is reactive when choosing where to recreate today.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
Warm and wet conditions will persist through Wednesday before wind and cooler temperatures return Thursday. Further rain will result in and increase in avalanche danger for the next few days.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. I will issue the next advisory on March 16, 2017.
Ski and ride safe.
The post Avalanche Advisory for March 14, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Mar 15, 2017

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Avalanche Warning for March 15, 2017

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An avalanche warning is in effect for the northern portion of the West Central Montana backcountry. The current avalanche danger is HIGH. Very dangerous avalanche conditions are present. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended today. Human triggered avalanches are very likely, and natural avalanches are likely.
This is Logan King with an avalanche warning for March 14, 2017. This avalanche warning will expire at 6:00 pm on March 15, 2017. The warning will be extended or terminated at that time.
This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
Mountain temperatures this afternoon range from 39 to 44 degrees. Widespread rain is impacting the region with .8-1.6 inches of water being added to the snowpack today. Rain is falling to around 8,000 feet this afternoon and looks to persist through the night. With a significant new load of water avalanche conditions will continue to deteriorate.
The avalanche warning is in effect due to wet slabs being likely up to 8,000 feet. The northern portion of the advisory area has seen the majority of the rain today and the concern is from the central Bitterroot to the Southern Swan and Southern Mission ranges including the Rattlesnake. Dangerous avalanche conditions exist and travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended. With so much rain on snow the snow will need time to adjust to the new load.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
Rain is expected to impact the region through Wednesday and avalanche danger will continue to increase as more water is added to the snowpack.
The next regular scheduled advisory will be issued Thursday, the 16th.
Ski and ride safe.
The post Avalanche Warning for March 15, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Mar 16, 2017

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Avalanche Advisory for March 16, 2017

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The current avalanche danger in the West Central Montana Backcountry is CONSIDERABLE. Human triggered avalanches are likely in specific terrain. Careful evaluation of the snowpack and cautious-route finding are essential to recreate in the backcountry today.
Good morning, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for March 16, 2017. This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas, expires at midnight tonight and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
The weather across West Central Montana is shifting as a cold front moves into the region. Temperatures are dropping today and are in the low to mid 30’s this morning. Winds are increasing with the frontal passage and Point 6 is currently reporting winds from the W at 27mph gusting to 40mph. Deer Mountain in the southern Bitterroot is showing winds sustained at 20mph and gusting to 32mph from the WSW. Precipitation has tapered in the northern part of the area and even shifted back towards snow at some locations. The southern Bitterroot is currently receiving heavy rain. Twin Lakes has accumulated 1.2 inches of SWE in 24 hours with the bulk of the water coming in the last 4 hours as rain.
I was up at Lolo Pass yesterday, Josh is up at Yurtski, and Travis and Tim were in the Rattlesnake. At Lolo Pass the snowpack was wet to the ground. In the Rattlesnake the upper snowpack was wet but the water had not percolated as deep into the snowpack. Very large roller balls were observed in steep terrain at all locations.
The primary concern today is wet loose avalanches below 7,500 feet. The combo of a wet snow surface and the snow not quite freezing overnight will result in heavy wet loose snow activity concentrated in the surface snow. Loose wet avalanches can be problematic in areas where the consequences of getting caught are amplified by terrain traps. Carefully evaluate the likelihood and consequences of getting caught in a loose wet avalanche.
Wet slab avalanches will be a concern today primarily in the southern Bitterroot. The southern Bitterroot only had a fraction of the moisture that was seen in the last few days but is now getting the lions share of the rain. With a large amount of water added to the snowpack in a sort timeframe the snowpack will be sensitive for the next 24 hours as the load of free water settles into the snowpack. Freezing temperatures will help alleviate this problem, keep an eye on the thermometer as temperatures look to drop below freezing tonight.
Travis and Tim reported a layer of near surface facets in the Rattlesnake that was not affected by the free water. These facets were about 1 meter deep and failed 50/100 (end) in a propagation saw test. This layer is only found in isolated areas and is not likely fail, but if it does the resulting avalanche will pack a punch. Take a minute to look for this layer and identify if it is reactive today.
Lastly cornices will warrant some attention today. With warm temperatures and rain for the last few days cornices will have significantly weakened. Give cornices an extra wide berth until freezing temperatures return as cornices failures have the potential to be large and are nearly impossible to predict.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
Strong winds look to dominate the advisory area today as cooler temperatures return. The cold air will help to settle wet and cornices problems that were seen the last couple of days as the free water in the snowpack freezes. The avalanche danger will be on the decrease for the next day or two as cooler temperatures prevail.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. I will issue the next advisory on March 18, 2017.
Ski and ride safe.

The post Avalanche Advisory for March 16, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Mar 21, 2017

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Avalanche Advisory for March 18, 2017

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The current avalanche danger in the West Central Montana Backcountry is MODERATE. Human triggered avalanches are possible in specific terrain. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully to identify features of concern.
Good morning, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for March 18, 2017. This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas, expires at midnight tonight and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
Mountain temperatures this morning range from 35-40 degrees and did not drop below freezing last night. The advisory area started getting rain early this morning and that looks to continue through the day today. Snotels across the region are showing .1-.2 inches of SWE so far. Winds are out of the WSW at Point 6 at 18mph and gusting to 26mph. At Deer Mountain this morning wind are from the SSE at 14mph gusting to 17mph.
The primary avalanche concern today will be wet loose slides. With more free water being added to the snow surface and not freezing overnight the surface snow will be saturated and moving again today. Stay aware of indicators like roller balls to identify that the surface snow is wet and loosing strength. Be cautious of terrain traps as they significantly increase the consequences of getting caught in a loose wet avalanche.
The majority of the advisory area has had a rain on snow event already this season and with rain to 8,500 feet the potential for wet slabs exists. Wet slabs are very challenging to predict so take the time to carefully evaluate conditions and terrain to identify if wet slab problems are present. If the snow is saturated you are better off looking elsewhere to find better conditions and not risk the possibility of a wet slab.
The interface of cold and warm snow is still present in the snowpack at upper elevations along with a preserved graupel layer. These layers are about 2-4 feet deep and are still reactive in stability tests in the Rattlesnake but are not propagating as readily. If you trigger an avalanche in this layer it will be large and have the potential to be very destructive. Take the time to identify if these layers are preserved and reactive before recreating today.
Finally cornices will be a concern again today. We observed large cornices in the Rattlesnake yesterday that were suspect. Without freezing overnight and more rain to 8,500 feet cornices will continue to lose strength today. Steer clear of cornices, as they can fail without warning, and often break farther back than expected.

Avalanche and Weather Outlook
Today looks to bring more rain to 8,500 feet. Rain total are not expected to be as abundant with this warm and wet system and look to bring a maximum of about 1 inch of water. Rain level will drop this evening and into tonight to near valley levels by Sunday as cooler and drier weather returns. Avalanche danger will be on the rise today as rain continues to fall and the temperatures climb.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. The next advisory will issue the next advisory on March 21, 2017.
Ski and ride safe.
The post Avalanche Advisory for March 18, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Mar 21, 2017

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Avalanche Advisory for March 21, 2017

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The current avalanche danger is LOW for the west central Montana backcountry. Human triggered avalanches are still possible in isolated terrain.
Good morning, this is Travis Craft with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for March 21, 2017. This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas, expires at midnight tonight and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
Mountain temperatures range from 29 F to 34 F in the region. Winds are 16 mph with gusts of 23 mph out of the SE in the Bitterroot. Point Six, in the northern part of the advisory area, winds are 12 mph with gusts of 16 mph out of the ESE. The area received 0 to 1 new inches of snow. The new snow had SWE’s ranging from .1 to .2 inches of water.
Logan and I took the sleds to Granite Pass in the northern Bitterroot yesterday. Josh is at Yurtski in the southern Swan. We all found a snowpack that was locked up due to the freezing temperatures in the mountains. With very little sun and high winds, the snowpack did not warm above freezing yesterday. Temperatures are rising this morning and most snotel sites got below freezing last night again locking up the snowpack.
The primary avalanche problem is loose wet releases in the afternoon. With warming temperatures and intermittent showers, today look for roller balls and pinwheels. These are clues to surface instability, and it is time to change aspects.
The secondary avalanche concern is cornices. Warming temperatures are weakening cornices. Give them a wide berth.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
Warming temperatures today and possible showers with light accumulations. Temperatures should drop below freezing tonight above 6000 feet. With wind and cloud cover the avalanche danger should stay the same. If the sun does come out, look for the avalanche danger to rise on sun-exposed slopes in the afternoon.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. I will issue the next advisory on March 23, 2017.
Ski and ride safe.

The post Avalanche Advisory for March 21, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Mar 23, 2017

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Avalanche Advisory for March 23, 2017

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The current avalanche danger is LOW for the west central Montana backcountry and will rise to MODERATE this afternoon. Human triggered avalanches are still possible in isolated terrain this morning and human triggered avalanches are possible this afternoon.
Good morning, this is Travis Craft with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for March 23, 2017. This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas, expires at midnight tonight and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
Mountain temperatures range from 22 F to 35 F in the region. Winds are 14 mph with gusts of 25 mph out of the W in the Bitterroot. Point Six, in the northern part of the advisory area, winds are 16 mph with gusts of 27 mph out of the W. The area received 0 to 1 new inches of snow.
Logan and I took the sleds to the southern Missions near Seeley Lake yesterday. It was the first day of real solar activity. We saw wet releases in the afternoon and several cornice failures from the past couple of warmer days. Snotel sites got below freezing last night to 6000 feet, from 6000 feet and below it did not freeze. Warming temperatures and solar activity will increase the avalanche danger throughout the day. If you start to see roller balls or start to punch through the crust, it is time to change aspects. Cornices will continue to fail with the lack of freezing temperatures, give them a wide berth.
The primary avalanche problem today is loose wet releases this afternoon. Roller balls and pinwheels are clues to surface instability. When these start to show up, it is time to change aspects. With warm temperatures today and solar activity expect the avalanche danger to increase throughout the day.
The second avalanche concern is cornice failure. We saw many cornice failures in the southern Missions yesterday. With the warm temperatures and the sun, cornices will continue to weaken. Give them a wide berth. Cornices tend to break farther back than expected.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
High pressure will dominate the region until Friday afternoon. Expect the avalanche danger to rise throughout the day. Overnight it is predicted to freeze to 4500 feet this will lock the snowpack up. Then with warmer temperatures and sun expect the avalanche danger to increase into the afternoon.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. Logan will issue the next advisory on March 25, 2017.
Ski and ride safe.

The post Avalanche Advisory for March 23, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Mar 27, 2017

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Avalanche Advisory for March 25, 2017

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The current avalanche danger is LOW for the West Central Montana backcountry. Low danger does not mean no danger and avalanches are still possible in isolated terrain. Carefully evaluate terrain to identify features of greatest concern. With temperatures above freezing later today avalanche danger will increase in the afternoon as the sun starts to affect the snow surface.
Good morning, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for March 25, 2017. This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas, expires at midnight tonight and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
Mountain temperatures this morning are below freezing and currently range from 25-31 degrees. The region received 1-4 inches of snow overnight from scattered snow showers. Winds are currently sustained at 16 mph gusting to 27 mph from the WNW at Point 6 and are calming at Deer Mountain where current winds are 7 mph gusting to 12 mph from the W.
Travis and I went on an abbreviated tour in the Rattlesnake yesterday and found the snowpack to be locked up tight. With cloud cover, strong winds, and cool temperatures the snow surface did not appear to be softening up at all yesterday above 7,500 feet.
The primary avalanche concern today will be loose dry avalanches. The old snow surface froze again before snow started to accumulate over night. The new snow will be sitting on a solid bed surface and will be moving on steep terrain. Loose wet avalanches will also become a concern as the day starts warming and the new snow surface begins to get heavy. Carefully evaluate the consequences of getting caught in small loose/wet snow avalanches and avoid terrain traps.
Cornices continue to require attention. Warm temperatures have weakened cornices throughout the advisory area and we continue to see natural cornice failures and cracking behind cornices while out in the mountains. Give cornices a wide berth as they tend to fail back farther than expected and the consequences of being involved in a cornice failure can be very high.
Spring time can bring great conditions for recreation but also complicates assessing avalanche danger. Wet problems tend to be unpredictable, and conservative decision making can be the best tool to safely recreate in the mountains this time of year. Continually reevaluate avalanche danger as spring conditions are very dynamic and change very quickly.

Avalanche and Weather Outlook
Light snow showers will continue off and on through the day today bringing wind this afternoon and finally giving way to warm and clear conditions on Sunday. The avalanche danger will climb if the sun starts to affect slopes in the early afternoon as temperatures look to climb above freezing today.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. I will issue the next advisory on March 28, 2017.
Ski and ride safe.
The post Avalanche Advisory for March 25, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Mar 28, 2017

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Avalanche Advisory for March 28, 2017

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The current avalanche danger is MODERATE for the West Central Montana backcountry. Human triggered avalanches are possible in specific terrain. Evaluate the snow and terrain carefully to to identify features of concern.
Good morning, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for March 28, 2017. This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas, expires at midnight tonight and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
Temperatures this morning remain below freezing and many locations across the advisory area stayed near freezing yesterday. Current temperatures range from 24-31 degrees. The Rattlesnake received the lion’s share of the snow yesterday, totaling 8 inches of snow and .7 inches of SWE. The rest of the region picked up 1-4 inches of snow yesterday adding up to .4 inches of SWE. Winds this morning are light at Point 6 gusting to 15 mph from the W and at Deer Mountain Gusting to 21 mph from the W.
The primary avalanche concern today will be storm slabs in the Rattlesnake. With 8 inches of new snow sitting on a solid bed surface, the new snow will need time to bond to the old snow surface. The storm stayed cool enough that it was snow to about 4,500 feet, but the snow is significantly warmer than the melt freeze crust it was falling on. The storm slab will settle as the temperature difference between the new snow and crust dissipates.
The storm slab has potential to become a wet slab problem later in the day as temperatures climb and the sun starts to affect the upper layers of the snowpack. Carefully evaluate conditions as they change through the day. If there are indicators like roller balls and wet heavy surface snow move towards a cooler aspect as even small wet slabs can be very destructive.
Tim and I went up to Lolo pass yesterday and found an inch of new warm snow sitting on a crust. The new snow will cause loose avalanche problems throughout the region. Loose snow avalanches are mostly likely in steep or rocky terrain and are of greatest concern in areas with terrain traps that increase the consequences of getting caught in a slide.

Avalanche and Weather Outlook
Today should bring a lull in the snow showers and relatively calm conditions will dominate the region today. As the storm slab problem settles today, the wet slab and loose wet activity will increase from warming and solar radiation.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. The next advisory will be issued March 30, 2017.
Ski and ride safe.
The post Avalanche Advisory for March 28, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Mar 30, 2017

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Avalanche Advisory for March 30, 2017

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The current avalanche danger is MODERATE for the West Central Montana backcountry. Human triggered avalanches are possible in specific terrain. Evaluate the snow and terrain carefully to to identify features of concern.
Good morning, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for March 30, 2017. This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas, expires at midnight tonight and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
The next pulse of moisture has moved into the region and has been primarily rain but a few snotels are reporting up to 3 inches of snow in the advisory area. SWE’s have ranged from .3-.7 inches of water as the storm system is warm and wet with rain line at about 7,000 feet. Mountain temperatures this morning are in the mid 30‘s. Winds have been light; Point 6 is reporting winds of 13 mph gusting to 23 mph from the WNW. Deer Mountain has winds sustained at 6 mph and gusting to 11 mph from the WSW.
The primary avalanche concern today is storm slabs above 7,000 feet. Over the last few days about a foot of snow has accumulated at upper elevations and more snow is expected today as temperatures look to drop and snow levels will lower. Carefully evaluate how well the new snow is bonding to the old snow before committing to avalanche terrain.
The secondary concern is loose snow avalanches. The loose snow avalanches will be dry above 7,000 feet and will be wet at lower elevations. Appropriate terrain selection is important when dealing with loose snow avalanches. Identify features of concern and terrain traps that increase the consequences of getting caught in a slide.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
Scattered and variable accumulations of snow will dominate the weather pattern for the region and should persist into the weekend. With moderate accumulations and no major changes in the weather the avalanche danger will remain the same through today and into tomorrow.
If you are out in the backcountry, please send us your observations, these are very helpful in producing the advisory. The next advisory will be issued April 1, 2017, and will be the last regular advisory of the season. Updates on avalanche conditions will be posted as necessary.
Ski and ride safe.
The post Avalanche Advisory for March 30, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Apr 3, 2017

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Avalanche Advisory for April 1, 2017

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The current avalanche danger is MODERATE for the West Central Montana backcountry. Human triggered avalanches are possible in specific terrain. Evaluate the snow and terrain carefully to identify features of concern.
Good morning, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for April 1, 2017. This danger rating does not apply to operating ski areas, expires at midnight tonight and is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Weather and Snowpack
Warm day time temperatures with scattered snow showers will persist through the weekend with minimal accumulations. Temperatures this morning are hovering around freezing and range from 26-34 degrees across the region. Scattered showers have deposited a trace to an inch of snow at locations across the advisory area. Current winds this morning at Point 6 are from the W at 11 mph gusting to 16 mph, and at Deer Mountain are from the SSE at 6 mph gusting to 7 mph.
The primary avalanche concern today is loose wet avalanches. As temperatures climb and the sun affects the snow surface loose snow avalanches will be easily triggered in steep terrain. Watch for indicators of weakening snow surfaces like roller balls, and be cautious of terrain traps that increase the consequences of getting taken off your feet by a small loose wet slide.
The secondary concern is wind slabs above 7,500 feet. Winds are less active today but Travis and I toured in the Rattlesnake yesterday and found that winds had transported a fair amount of snow at upper elevations. Carefully evaluate terrain and snowpack to determine if wind slabs are present. Most wind slabs will be small and isolated in pockets above tree line.
Cornices in the Rattlesnake were sagging yesterday and looked very touchy. Steer clear of cornices as they tend to break farther back than expected and will fail readily under the stress of any additional weight.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
Scattered showers and sun will persist through the weekend but no significant accumulations are expected. The avalanche danger will remain the same as conditions don’t look to change, but we are in the daily cycle of increasing danger through the day as temperatures climb.
This is the last regular scheduled advisory but we will post additional avalanche and snowpack information if necessary for the next couple of weeks. If you are out in the backcountry, please share your observations, we will continue to post public observations to the website.
Thanks for the great season, Ski and ride safe.
The post Avalanche Advisory for April 1, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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Scott · Apr 7, 2017

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Avalanche Special Update – Spring Time Update – April 7, 2017

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This is Travis Craft with a Spring conditions update.
SPRINGTIME SNOW SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
Spring time is a mixed bag of conditions. It can feel like winter and summer all in the same day. The primary considerations are looking at Snotel data to see if upper elevations have frozen overnight and what the weather forecast is for the day. You have to pay attention to changing conditions throughout the day.
The main avalanche problems are loose wet avalanches, cornices, wet slab avalanches; and also in the alpine, wind slabs and new snow bonding to old snow surfaces.
Loose wet avalanches can entrain a large amount of snow and carry a rider into a terrain trap. When the snow surface starts producing roller balls and pinwheels it is time to change to a shadier aspect.
Cornices are starting to weaken. These beasts are unpredictable, give them a wide berth because they break farther back than expected. Avoid traveling under slopes with cornices during the middle of the day.
Wet slab avalanches are very unpredictable. When you start to punch into the snowpack up to your knees or below the melt freeze crust, change your aspect and avoid steep slopes.
In higher elevations, where new snow is still falling, pay attention to how new snow is bonding to old snow surfaces. Shooting cracks give you bullseye data that the new snow is not bonding to the old snow surface.
Wind slabs will be present in the higher elevations on leeward slopes. Identify these features and how sensitive they are when traveling by looking for shooting cracks.
The take home points. If temperatures did not freeze overnight, instabilities in the snowpack will rapidly increase and the avalanche danger will rise throughout the day. Pay attention to changes throughout the day with weather and temperature.
This is our last information statement for this season. We will continue to monitor and post any public observations as we receive them and will post updated information if conditions change dramatically. If you get out and see something worth passing along, please send us an email or use the form available on our website at missoulaavalanche.org. The information provided might keep someone out of trouble.
Thanks for another great season and all the support this year! We couldn’t do it without your financial help, and it is deeply appreciated. A special thank you goes out to the dedicated board members of the West Central Montana Avalanche Foundation, our non-profit support organization.
Ski and ride safe.

The post Avalanche Special Update – Spring Time Update – April 7, 2017 appeared first on Missoula Avalanche.

This information is the sole responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The avalanche danger rating expires at midnight tonight but you can use the information we provide to help you make more informed decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain for the next few days.

Our advisory area includes the Bitterroot Mountains from Lost Trail Pass North to Hoodoo Pass, the Rattlesnake Mountains and the Southern Swan and Mission Mountains near Seeley Lake. Avalanche information for the Lookout Pass/St. Regis Basin is available from the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

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2016-17 W. Central Montana Avy conditions thread---"NO RATING"

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