April 9, 2016 W. Central Montana avalanche report--READ THIS REPORT--> "NO RATING"--

Scott · Jan 12, 2016

Missoula Avalanche
Avalanche Advisory for January 12, 2016

moderate danger
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On wind-loaded slopes above 7000 feet that are 35 degrees and steeper, the avalanche danger is MODERATE in the west central Montana backcountry. In other terrain in the advisory area the avalanche danger is LOW.

Good Morning, this is Dudley Improta with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s advisory for January 12, 2016. This danger rating is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service, does not apply to operating ski areas and expires at midnight tonight. Logan, Brian and Travis are finishing up the field portion of the National Avalanche School in Jackson, WY; so Steve and I are issuing the advisories this week.

Weather and Snowpack

This morning, mountain winds, mainly out of the west, are blowing in the 15 mph range and gusting into the 30’s. Mountain temperatures are ranging from 11 degrees F near Lost Trail to 24 degrees F in the Rattlesnakes. It is snowing, with to 2 – 4 inches of accumulation overnight.

We also picked up a few inches of snow over the weekend. Specific areas, like the southern Missions and the central Bitterroots, received 6 inches of snow late Saturday and early Sunday. Higher elevation winds, mainly out of the west and southwest, blew in the 20 and 30 mph range consistently Saturday through yesterday. These winds moved all the snow available on to leeward slopes. Wind slabs are the primary problem right now and can be found on steep leeward slopes above 7000 feet. The conundrum is these leeward slopes are skiing and riding very well, and we haven’t exactly had an abundance of powder riding and skiing this season.

A secondary problem is loose snow sluffs; particularly in the areas that received the most snow. Yesterday, Steve and I triggered loose snow easily in the Rattlesnakes; but it was all on steep rollovers and aspects where the wind had deposited the new snow. This problem is going to be confined to the higher elevations as well. As one public observer noted; the sluffs “could be avoided, but were too big to ignore”.

Weather Forecast and Avalanche Outlook

Yesterday was a beautiful day to be in the west central Montana backcountry. Yesterday’s high pressure has given way to a weak system today. Snow amounts are forecast to remain light with continuing westerly winds. There is talk of a stronger system arriving later tonight. I would expect the avalanche danger to increase with continued snow and wind.

Low and Moderate Danger

It’s easy to get complacent with periods of lower avalanche danger. We have observed quite a few less-than-safe skin tracks recently. Stick to your protocols; when negotiating avalanche hazard, only expose one member of the party at a time.

And, I would remind some that a few years ago an avalanche fatality occurred in the Bridgers when the Gallatin Avalanche Center had issued a LOW danger rating for the area. The accident took place in very steep, extreme terrain. In steep, exposed terrain you can never be 100 percent sure it won’t slide.

I will issue the next advisory on Thursday, January 14.

Public observations are important to the avalanche advisory and to riders and skiers. If you would like to send us snow observations use our public observations form or e-mail us at info@missoulaavalanche.org .

There are openings in some Level 1 and Level 1 refresher classes. For all avalanche education opportunities visit our education page.

Ski and Ride safe.

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Scott · Jan 14, 2016

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Avalanche Advisory for January 14, 2016

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There is high avalanche danger in the southern Missions, southern Swans & central Bitterroot. Natural and human-triggered avalanches are likely. Overall, in the west central Montana backcountry, the avalanche danger is considerable. Natural avalanches are possible and human-triggered avalanches are likely.
Good Morning, this is Dudley Improta with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s advisory for January 14, 2016. This danger rating is the sole responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service, does not apply to operating ski areas and expires at midnight tonight.
Weather and Snowpack
Generally, the area received about 6 inches of snow last night. The southern Missions and southern Swans have accumulated up to 16 inches of new snow. The central Bitterroot received 10 inches. Snow is forecast to continue to accumulate throughout the day; west central Montana is under a winter weather advisory until 11am MST.
Westerly mountain winds are blowing in the high 20 mph range and gusting into the 30’s. Mountain temperatures are in the low to mid 20’s F . Continued snow is forecast for today.
The new snow fell on a myriad of surfaces, depending on aspect. We toured the Rattlesnake and found cold snow capped by a wind crust on west and east facing slopes. On the south aspect there was a sun crust overlying surface facets. David Fox and Geoff Fast found a buried surface hoar layer 6 inches from the surface at Lost Trail; keep that in mind if you’re in the southern Bitterroots.
Storm slabs, wind slabs and large loose sluffs will be problems today. Stong westerly and southwesterly winds have loaded lee slopes; wind-loaded slopes are probably the most touchy, but I would avoid all steep slopes today. Travel on or under steep slopes is not recommended.
We received preliminary information about an avalanche accident in the St. Regis Basin yesterday. The accident happened in the afternoon and involved 3 skiers. Early information indicates Search and Rescue and helicopter assistance from Two Bear Air Rescue was initiated. There were injuries sustained but no fatalities. The St. Regis Basin area is covered by the Idaho Panhandle National Forest Avalanche Center.
Weather Forecast and Avalanche Outlook
Snow and wind will continue throughout the day. After a brief interlude, another system is expected to produce more snow tonight through Friday night. And, yet another system is forecast for Saturday. We will be out Friday and issue another advisory Saturday morning. For now, I would expect the avalanche danger to remain elevated.
Other Info
There are some openings left in Level 1 avalanche classes. Check our education page for all avalanche education opportunities.
Public observations can be important to the avalanche advisory and to riders and skiers. If you would like to send us snow observations use our public observations form or e-mail us at info@missoulaavalanche.org .
Steve will issue the next advisory Saturday morning, January 16.
Ride and ski safe.

considerable

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Scott · Jan 16, 2016

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Avalanche Advisory for January 16, 2016

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There is CONSIDERABLE avalanche danger on recently wind loaded terrain steeper than 35 degrees above 6000 feet in the west central Montana backcountry. Considerable means dangerous avalanche conditions, natural avalanches are possible, human triggered avalanches are likely. Travel in avalanche terrain under these conditions requires careful evaluation of the snowpack, cautious route-finding and conservative decision-making.
In the southern Missions west of Seeley Lake, there may be locations where the avalanche danger is at the next level. This area was getting hammered by high west winds Friday so expect to find dangerous wind slabs on the higher terrain near the North Fork Bowls. If you see avalanche activity, the avalanche danger is HIGH. Natural and human triggered avalanches are very likely, avoid being on or under steep open slopes.
The avalanche danger is MODERATE at all other locations and elevations within the advisory area.
Good morning! This is Steve Karkanen with the West Central MT Avalanche Center’s backcountry avalanche advisory for Saturday, January 16, 2016. This information is the responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas. The danger rating expires at midnight tonight.

Weather and Snowpack

This morning SNOTEL stations are reporting temperatures in the mid twenties and it’s snowing. Most sites have received an inch or two of snow this morning. It’s much cooler at higher elevations with Point Six RAWS and Saddle Mountain SNOTEL reporting temperatures in the teens with 15 mph west winds.
Most locations in western Montana picked up a bit more precipitation since Thursday but the headline is high wind moving snow in the higher exposed terrain.
Tim and I rode into the Elsina Lake/Fawn Peak area Friday and found that the heavy snowfall from the previous 48 hours has settled well and is bonding to the old snow surface. We felt pretty good about the overall stability except for the any wind loaded slope. We found a small slab avalanche below a steep road cut probably triggered as a machine passed by on Thursday. This is the sort of bull’s eye information that indicates unstable conditions. The new snow came in dense and has had time to settle with more moderate temperatures and our stability tests confirmed strengthening. The profile and picture below were taken from this location at 5700 feet near the warming hut. We did not see any other avalanche activity and riders were hitting steep open slopes with no problem.
It will be a much different story on the higher more exposed terrain. High winds were moving a lot of this snow onto lee terrain and these wind slabs will be dangerous for a few days.
We received a report from Yurt Ski who reported little wind at the Yurts but they were uncertain about ridgetop winds. The southern tip of the Swan Range received about 12 inches of storm snow this week.
Stability tests were showing no propagation in the Extended Column Test and moderate scores w/ dirty shear planes in compression tests.
Dudley toured around Lolo Pass Friday and found mostly stable conditions and little wind at the pass. He theorizes that is still possible to get snow to move on the steeper open terrain but stability tests in this area indicate continued strengthening.
It is important to note that some facets formed on and near the surface prior to this last storm. It’s showing in some of our snow profiles but is not reactive in testing. This layer was reactive in Dave and Geoff’s pits near Lost Trail Pass earlier this week so as always, it’s worth looking for.

Weather and Avalanche Forecast

A potent weather system fed by pacific moisture will deliver widespread snow to the area starting today. Snow levels are expected to gradually rise later today causing a mix of rain and snow showers at the lower elevations. We’ll have a short break Sunday prior to the next storm entering the area Sunday night and Monday. Snow levels are expected to rise with this system with a greater threat of rain at the lower elevations. We can expect mostly snow in the mountains, but it may be heavy and dense with high winds.
An active weather pattern is in store for the rest of the week which is a good thing. A few inches of snow every day is better for overall stability than one big dump then nothing for days. Wind slabs and storm snow slabs will be the primary avalanche problems during this period.
Expect the avalanche danger to increase with high winds and heavy snowfall. The elevated danger today is specific to any wind loaded slope steeper than 35 degrees so avoid wind loaded terrain.
Other Information

We have a couple of open slots in our Level 1 avalanche classes. Check our education page for all avalanche education opportunities and for registration information.
Public observations can be important to the avalanche advisory and to other riders and skiers. If you see something, let us know. To send us snow observations use our public observations form or e-mail us at info@missoulaavalanche.org .
Have a great holiday weekend and be safe out there! Logan King will issue the next advisory on Tuesday, January 19th.
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Scott · Jan 19, 2016

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Avalanche Advisory for January 19, 2016

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The current avalanche danger for the West Central Montana Backcountry is Moderate. Human triggered avalanches are possible in specific terrain. Leeward terrain will be most susceptible to avalanche activity.
Good morning this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s backcountry avalanche advisory for Tuesday, January 19th. This information is the responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas and expires at midnight.

WEATHER AND SNOWPACK
The start of the weekend favored the northern half of the advisory area while the tail end of the weekend and MLK day were favorable to the southern part of the advisory area but precipitation has tapered off through the advisory area. A trace to 1 inch of new snow was seen over night and currently, ridge top winds are 8mph and gusting to 15mph out of the SSW. Temperatures continue to be mild for West Central Montana and are in the low twenties this morning.
The primary avalanche concern are soft wind slabs. Even though we saw strong winds during the storm cycle the snow was dense enough to limit transport. The wind slabs were not as beefy as expected and have had a few days to settle out and are beginning to bond to the older snow surface. However, they can still be triggered in specific terrain, particularly in the northern part of the advisory area. Keep in mind the new snow was heavy and did not transport as readily as expected so these slabs may appear to be storm slabs or more likely as unusually soft wind slabs.
Loose snow avalanches are the secondary concern. We observed a few small loose slides near Lost Trail Pass on south facing terrain yesterday as temperatures and solar radiation increased. These were small slides but even small slides can be dangerous in high consequence terrain.
Keep in mind that the snowpack varies greatly from North to South and careful assessment of terrain and current conditions are paramount to safely travel and recreate in the backcountry.

WEATHER AND AVALANCHE FORECAST
The forecast suggest little to no accumulation today but another moist and warm system to move in tonight. Snow levels will again be nearly 4,000 ft but currently we are looking at approximately 5-10 inches of heavier snow in the mountains. A significant new load will require time to settle and for the snowpack to adjust. Avalanche conditions should remain the same through today but will be increasing tonight as snow begins to accumulate again.
Of note is the likelihood of another warm wet system moving in before the weekend. Current models suggest another significant wet and heavy load or perhaps even a rain on snow event up to the mid elevations. Keep a watchful eye as this materializes and how it affects the snowpack.
I will issue the next advisory on Thursday, January 21st.

moderate

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Scott · Jan 21, 2016

Missoula Avalanche
Avalanche Advisory for January 21, 2016

considerable danger
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The current avalanche danger is CONSIDERABLE for the southern Missions and southern Swan area, natural avalanches are possible and human triggered avalanches are likely. The remainder of the advisory area has a MODERATE avalanche danger.

Good morning this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s backcountry avalanche advisory for Thursday, January 21st. This information is the responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas and expires at midnight.

WEATHER AND SNOWPACK

There continues to be a great difference in the snowpack and weather for the advisory area from North to South. The northern region of the forecast area has seen 6-12 inches of new snow in the past 48 hours while the southern portion has seen significantly less. Winds this morning are currently light and gusting into the low teens.

The CONSIDERABLE avalanche danger applies to the southern Missions and Swan ranges. A substantial new load has accumulated over the past 48 hours. Tim and I rode into the southern Swan area yesterday and were able to get easy propagations on facets that formed around a melt freeze crust and also found near surface facets to be reactive in compression tests (pit). We came across a group that had triggered a good size slide that is suspected to have run on the near surface facets (pic). Strong snowfall was seen all day at about 1inch an hour. We later received reports of 2 other skier triggered slides on east and north aspects in the area, which were reported to have been storm slabs. The situation continues to be a bit touchy for the northern extent of the advisory area, we received a report of a skier triggered slide in the Rattlesnake yesterday (public obs. 2). With a widespread storm slab problem time will be required for the snow to adjust to the new load and reduce the danger.

For the southern part of the advisory area the avalanche danger remains MODERATE. The snow from earlier in the week appears to be bonding well and the main concern for the southern reaches will continue to be the wind slabs that formed over the weekend and into the early week. Yesterday, we received a report of a skier triggered wind slab near Gash Point (public obs.) Keep in mind that the wind slabs were formed atypically so treat all suspected wind loaded slopes with caution and use wise terrain management to avoided the wind slabs.

WEATHER AND AVALANCHE FORECAST

The forecast is calling for high pressure to move in today resulting in mild temperatures. This should help to stabilize the snowpack but this will be very short lived as Friday will bring more moisture before the regions cools off again. Friday’s shift will likely result in a rain on snow event to mid elevations which will rapidly increase avalanche danger.

Travis will issue the next advisory on Saturday, January 23rd.

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Scott · Jan 21, 2016

Missoula Avalanche
Avalanche Advisory for January 21, 2016

considerable danger
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The current avalanche danger is CONSIDERABLE for the southern Missions and southern Swan area, natural avalanches are possible and human triggered avalanches are likely. The remainder of the advisory area has a MODERATE avalanche danger.

Good morning this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s backcountry avalanche advisory for Thursday, January 21st. This information is the responsibility of the Forest Service and does not apply to operating ski areas and expires at midnight.

WEATHER AND SNOWPACK

There continues to be a great difference in the snowpack and weather for the advisory area from North to South. The northern region of the forecast area has seen 6-12 inches of new snow in the past 48 hours while the southern portion has seen significantly less. Winds this morning are currently light and gusting into the low teens.

The CONSIDERABLE avalanche danger applies to the southern Missions and Swan ranges. A substantial new load has accumulated over the past 48 hours. Tim and I rode into the southern Swan area yesterday and were able to get easy propagations on facets that formed around a melt freeze crust and also found near surface facets to be reactive in compression tests (pit). We came across a group that had triggered a good size slide that is suspected to have run on the near surface facets (pic). Strong snowfall was seen all day at about 1inch an hour. We later received reports of 2 other skier triggered slides on east and north aspects in the area, which were reported to have been storm slabs. The situation continues to be a bit touchy for the northern extent of the advisory area, we received a report of a skier triggered slide in the Rattlesnake yesterday (public obs. 2). With a widespread storm slab problem time will be required for the snow to adjust to the new load and reduce the danger.

For the southern part of the advisory area the avalanche danger remains MODERATE. The snow from earlier in the week appears to be bonding well and the main concern for the southern reaches will continue to be the wind slabs that formed over the weekend and into the early week. Yesterday, we received a report of a skier triggered wind slab near Gash Point (public obs.) Keep in mind that the wind slabs were formed atypically so treat all suspected wind loaded slopes with caution and use wise terrain management to avoided the wind slabs.

WEATHER AND AVALANCHE FORECAST

The forecast is calling for high pressure to move in today resulting in mild temperatures. This should help to stabilize the snowpack but this will be very short lived as Friday will bring more moisture before the regions cools off again. Friday’s shift will likely result in a rain on snow event to mid elevations which will rapidly increase avalanche danger.

Travis will issue the next advisory on Saturday, January 23rd.

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Scott · Jan 26, 2016

Missoula Avalanche
Avalanche Advisory for January 23, 2016

considerable danger
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The avalanche danger is rated CONSIDERABLE in the southern Swan and southern Mission ranges. Human-triggered avalanches are likely. Careful snowpack evaluation, cautious route-finding and conservative decision making are essential. The rest of the advisory area (the Rattlesnake and entire Bitterroot range) the danger rating is MODERATE. Human triggered avalanches are possible.

Good morning, this is Travis Craft with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for January 23, 2016. 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 temperatures are in the mid to upper 20’s this morning. No new snow fell overnight. Winds are 13 mph gusting to 17 mph out of the SSW in the Bitterroot. In the northern portion of the region winds are 10 mph gusting to 16 mph out of the SSW.

The southern Swan and southern Missions have a CONSIDERABLE avalanche danger rating. The primary concern is the persistent weak layer of near surface facets that Logan and Tim found on Wednesday. This layer is very reactive in our pit tests. We are getting reports of shooting cracks and natural avalanche activity, this is bullseye data of instability. A storm slab is the second problem. The large amount of new snow from the past couple of days needs time to settle. The last concern is that high winds from the last two days created wind slabs on leeward terrain. So, with these three concerns the avalanche problem is complex and means that careful snowpack evaluation, cautious route finding, and conservative decision making are needed for travel in avalanche terrain today.

The Rattlesnake and Bitterroot ranges have a MODERATE danger rating. The main problem Steve and I saw in the central Bitterroot was the storm slab. It was failing on the upside down cold snow from the beginning of the storm cycle 6 days ago. This was seen by Ed in the southern Bitterroot and Brian and Josh in the Rattlesnake. This layer varies in depth from 20cm to 60cm depending on storm totals (pit01, pit02, pit03). To find this interface dig a pit and see if it propagates in your ECT. The second avalanche problem are the wind slabs which have formed in the region from the high winds over the past few days. Be aware of leeward slopes. This means human triggered avalanches are possible and evaluate snow and terrain carefully.

Weather and Avalanche Forecast

A weak disturbance is expected to enter our region today and bring with it precipitation and strong winds that will last until Sunday night. The mountains should pick up several inches of snow. This addition of new snow and wind will increase the avalanche hazard. If you are out traveling in avalanche terrain during this weather remember conditions can change quickly and pay attention to any bullseye data (shooting cracks, sudden collapses, and recent avalanches). Bullseye data are signs of instability.

Ski and ride safe. I will issue the next advisory on Tuesday.

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Scott · Jan 26, 2016

Missoula Avalanche
Avalanche Advisory for January 26, 2016

moderate danger
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The current avalanche danger is MODERATE in the west central Montana backcountry. Human triggered avalanches are possible. Heightened avalanche conditions exist in isolated terrain. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully and identify features of concern.

Good morning, this is Travis Craft with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for January 26, 2016. 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 27 F in the region. Winds are 11 mph with gusts of 15 mph out of the SSW in the Bitterroot and 20 mph with gusts of 24 mph out of the WNW on Point Six. Most sites report no new snow with a few picking up a couple inches of new snow overnight.

The avalanche danger is MODERATE and this does not mean green light conditions. We have a complex situation with our snowpack. The first problem we have is a persistent slab that is failing on an interface of preserved cold snow. This layer propagates on some aspects, but not on all. The other problem that is failing in stability tests is a near surface facet layer above a melt freeze crust. These two layers are present in our snowpack throughout the advisory area but are not reactive on every slope or aspect. Dudley found these layers in the southern Swan at the Yurtski, Steve found them in the Rattlesnake and Tim and I had similar findings in the Lolo pass area. The only way to find these layers is to dig in the snow and see if they are reactive in your pit.

The second avalanche problem are wind slabs. The wind slabs are located on leeward terrain. Over the last couple of days we have had varying wind directions. Look for gullies to be cross loaded, as well as, for the standard placement of wind slabs on ridges. These slabs are not large, but can take you by surprise (public obs).

MODERATE conditions call for restraint. The problems we have are isolated and we are not getting any bullseye data. The only way to find these persistent layers is to dig a pit and see if they are reactive. We have had 11 fatalities in the West since the beginging of January, not to mention the amount of close calls. MODERATE conditions mean human triggered avalanches are possible.

Weather and Avalanche Outlook

High pressure moves into the area today with warmer temperatures predicted for the mountains. We should see this high pressure be pushed out by tonight or early Wednesday by a weak disturbance which will bring light precipitation. The avalanche danger will remain the same with these conditionss.

Ski and ride safe. Logan will issue the next advisory on Thursday.

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Scott · Jan 28, 2016

Missoula Avalanche

Avalanche Advisory for January 28, 2016

moderate danger

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The current avalanche danger is MODERATE for the west central Montana backcountry. Human triggered avalanches are possible, natural avalanches are unlikely. Heightened avalanche conditions exist in isolated terrain.

Good morning, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for Thursday, January 28th 2016. The 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

Over the past 24 hours the advisory area has seen a trace to two inches of heavy snow bringing .3-.5 inches of SWE to the majority of the advisory area. Mountain temps are currently in the mid thirties and the majority of sites did not drop below freezing overnight. Currently winds are 13-20mph with gusts of 20-30mph out of the SW to the SE.

Persistent slabs continue to be the primary avalanche concern. Facets can be found on nearly all aspects and in a multitude of forms. Near Surface facet layers were observed on all aspects yesterday in the Rattlesnake and range from 2mm thick to 10 cm thick (pit). Buried surface hoar has also been seen in the advisory area, lastly Tim and I found depth hoar that propagated in shallower areas yesterday as well. The facet layers are not always reactive but are widespread and will be stressed with the new load so conservative decision making as well as identifying where the facets are will be critical today.

The second avalanche concern are wind slabs, strong and irregular winds created windslabs throughout the advisory area and they have been periodically reactive. We received a report of a human triggered windslab on Tuesday in the northern part of the advisory area. All leeward terrain has the potential to be harboring a windslab, stay keyed into signs of wind affected snow.

The third avalanche concern is storm slabs, with a heavy wet load of new snow falling on a rime crust and graupel with more to come, the storm slabs will be sensitive until the storm tapers off.

Currently conditions are MODERATE but could easily shift to CONSIDERABLE as more snow accumulates. If you are out in the backcountry today stay aware of conditions as they change and adjust your travel plans accordingly.

Weather and Avalanche Outlook

The forecast is calling for wind and more wet heavy snow with snow levels at about 5,000ft through tonight. There will be a brief break in the wet conditions Friday morning but snow will start to fall again by Friday evening as colder temperatures settle in. As the new snow load increases so will the avalanche danger.

Travis will issue the next advisory on Saturday, January 30th.

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Scott · Feb 1, 2016

Current West Central Montana Avalanche Advisory
Posted: Jan 30, 2016 06:30 am
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Missoula Avalanche
Avalanche Advisory for January 30, 2016

considerable danger
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The current avalanche danger is CONSIDERABLE in the west central Montana backcountry on wind loaded slopes greater than 35 degrees. For other slopes in the advisory area the danger is MODERATE. This means careful snowpack evaluation, cautious route-finding and conservative decision-making are essential to recreate today.

Good morning, this is Travis Craft with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for January 30, 2016. 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. The area has received between 2 to 7 new inches of snow in the last 24 hours.

The first avalanche problem today are wind slabs. The new snow came in with high winds which have placed wind slabs on leeward terrain. Ed reported shooting cracks on ridges in the southern Bitterroot. Matt was in the Lolo pass area and found freshly deposited wind slabs on leeward terrain.

The second avalanche problem are loose dry avalanches. The new snow has been deposited on weak snow surfaces created by previous warm temperatures. At elevations below 7600 ft., we have a rain crust and above 7600 ft., we have new snow layers that are weak. With additional snow loading expect these loose dry avalanches to start to form storm slabs.

The last avalanche concern are persistent slabs. The layer of concern is a cold preserved layer of snow in our snowpack and it is varying in depth in the advisory area between 30cm and 40cm. It is getting clean failures in compression tests and will propagate on some aspects. Brian was able to find this layer in the Rattlesnake and got it to propagate in an ECT. Steve and I found this layer near Sheep Mountain and could not get it to propagate. With the new load of snow, dig a pit to see if this layer is reactive.

Weather and Avalanche Outlook

The forecast is calling for snow banding events today. These are events that could produce 1 to 4 inches in a short time and could be accompanied with high winds. This will increase the avalanche hazard. Pay attention to changing conditions while recreating today.

Ski and ride safe. Logan will issue the next advisory on Tuesday.

The post Avalanche Advisory for January 30, 2016 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 · Feb 2, 2016

Missoula Avalanche
Avalanche Advisory for February 2, 2016

considerable danger
View Full Advisory »
Good morning and happy groundhog day, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for Tuesday, February 2nd 2016. The current avalanche danger is CONSIDERABLE for the northern part of the west central Montana backcountry. Human triggered avalanches are likely, and natural avalanches are possible. The southern portion of the advisory area received less snow over the past few days and has a MODERATE avalanche danger.

Weather and Snowpack

Temperatures have dropped at mountain locations and are currently in the upper teens with light winds out of the south west. Snow bands have brought significant snow to the northern end of the advisory area and over the past 24 hours, nearly a foot of snow has accumulated. The new snow was lower density than we have seen for a while and only totaled approximately .9 inches of SWE. Overnight most locations saw an additional 1-3 inches of snow.

We toured in the Rattlesnake yesterday and found a significant amount of new low density snow and snow fall rates of about an inch an hour persisted through the day. As the snow piled up it started to become more reactive and we saw a few natural loose slides (pic1) and found the new snow was beginning to react to human triggers later in the afternoon (pic2). At lower elevations and southern aspects, where the new snow was falling on a rain crust was where storm slabs were observed to be most reactive. Storm slabs will be the primary concern today and will be widespread, they will be especially touchy at mid-low elevations and on southern aspects or anywhere else where the storm slab is sitting on a crust.

Loose snow avalanches will be another significant concern today. There is a lot of new snow out there and some of the small “sluffs” we observed were able to entrain a significant amount of snow and moved very quick. Terrain management will be critical today, loose snow slides are likely so be aware of terrain traps and potential consequences of getting caught in a loose snow avalanche.

The storm slab and loose snow problems are focused around the Rattlesnake and Southern Missions. Persistent slabs are still out there and will be a concern everywhere in the advisory area. Persistent slabs have become less reactive as of late but still warrant attention. The only way to know where the persistent slabs are and if they are reactive is to dig. The avalanche danger for the Swan and Bitterroot ranges is MODERATE.

Weather and Avalanche Outlook

Snow is expected to continue through the afternoon with the possibly of localized heavy snow if banding develops again today. However, snow totals will not be as significant as the past couple of days. Any significant new load will rapidly increase the avalanche danger.

Lets hope Phil sees his shadow today. Travis will issue the next advisory on Thursday, February 4th. 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.

The post Avalanche Advisory for February 2, 2016 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.

Scott · Feb 4, 2016

Missoula Avalanche
Avalanche Advisory for February 4, 2016

moderate danger
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The current avalanche danger is MODERATE in the west central Montana backcountry. Human triggered avalanches are possible. Heightened avalanche conditions exist in isolated terrain. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully and identify features of concern.

Good morning, this is Travis Craft with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for February 4, 2016. 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 14 F to 24 F in the region. Winds are 09 mph with gusts of 16 mph out of the SSW in the Bitterroot. The forecast area received 1 to 3 inches of new snow in the last 24 hours.

The Rattlesnake has received 16 inches of light snow over the last 48 hours. The rest of the advisory area received lower amounts of snow. Dudley and I toured in the Rattlesnake yesterday and we observed that the snowpack is adjusting to the new load. We saw settlement rings around trees and the snowpack was buckling. Brian was at Lolo pass and observed similar findings with the snow bonding well to the rain crust at lower elevations.

The main avalanche problem today is loose dry avalanches. These avalanches are possible to trigger today on steep slopes > 35 degrees and they are not a problem unless you are carried into a terrain trap (trees, cliffs and gullies).

The second avalanche concern today are wind slabs. These slabs formed in isolated areas on ridge tops. Though not widespread, these slabs are touchy. We observed a natural release in the Rattlesnake that occurred in the last 48 hours. The slab was relatively small and did not trigger any other avalanches on the slope.

The third avalanche problem is a storm slab. We saw evidence of natural storm slab releases that were only a couple of inches thick. Beware that on steep slopes it may be possible to trigger these storm slabs.

With the accumulation of a significant amount of new snow, the snowpack is adjusting to the weight and is settling. There are weak layers present in our snowpack, but they were not reactive in our snow pit tests. When choosing to recreate on a slope, dig a pit to see if there are any layers of concern. Dudley and I found a shallow snowpack of 115cm where the layer of basal facets was hard to trigger in compression tests and did not propagate in the ECT.

Avalanche and Weather Outlook

The snowpack is settling and adjusting to the new load. A new weather system is entering our area this morning and is expected to create banding snow showers which could drop 2 inches of snow or more in a short time in isolated areas. If you start to get shooting cracks, sudden collapses, or any other bullseye data, that means that conditions are changing and becoming rapidly unstable. The system is predicted to come in with strong winds and there is a lot of new snow available for transport, potentially creating wind slabs. The avalanche danger may increase with the addition of new snow and strong winds.

Ski and ride safe. Logan will issue the next advisory on Saturday.

Scott · Feb 9, 2016

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Avalanche Advisory for February 4, 2016

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The current avalanche danger is MODERATE in the west central Montana backcountry. Human triggered avalanches are possible. Heightened avalanche conditions exist in isolated terrain. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully and identify features of concern.
Good morning, this is Travis Craft with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for February 4, 2016. 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 14 F to 24 F in the region. Winds are 09 mph with gusts of 16 mph out of the SSW in the Bitterroot. The forecast area received 1 to 3 inches of new snow in the last 24 hours.
The Rattlesnake has received 16 inches of light snow over the last 48 hours. The rest of the advisory area received lower amounts of snow. Dudley and I toured in the Rattlesnake yesterday and we observed that the snowpack is adjusting to the new load. We saw settlement rings around trees and the snowpack was buckling. Brian was at Lolo pass and observed similar findings with the snow bonding well to the rain crust at lower elevations.
The main avalanche problem today is loose dry avalanches. These avalanches are possible to trigger today on steep slopes > 35 degrees and they are not a problem unless you are carried into a terrain trap (trees, cliffs and gullies).
The second avalanche concern today are wind slabs. These slabs formed in isolated areas on ridge tops. Though not widespread, these slabs are touchy. We observed a natural release in the Rattlesnake that occurred in the last 48 hours. The slab was relatively small and did not trigger any other avalanches on the slope.
The third avalanche problem is a storm slab. We saw evidence of natural storm slab releases that were only a couple of inches thick. Beware that on steep slopes it may be possible to trigger these storm slabs.
With the accumulation of a significant amount of new snow, the snowpack is adjusting to the weight and is settling. There are weak layers present in our snowpack, but they were not reactive in our snow pit tests. When choosing to recreate on a slope, dig a pit to see if there are any layers of concern. Dudley and I found a shallow snowpack of 115cm where the layer of basal facets was hard to trigger in compression tests and did not propagate in the ECT.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
The snowpack is settling and adjusting to the new load. A new weather system is entering our area this morning and is expected to create banding snow showers which could drop 2 inches of snow or more in a short time in isolated areas. If you start to get shooting cracks, sudden collapses, or any other bullseye data, that means that conditions are changing and becoming rapidly unstable. The system is predicted to come in with strong winds and there is a lot of new snow available for transport, potentially creating wind slabs. The avalanche danger may increase with the addition of new snow and strong winds.
Ski and ride safe. Logan will issue the next advisory on Saturday.

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Scott · Feb 9, 2016

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Avalanche Advisory for February 6, 2016

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The current avalanche danger for the west central Montana backcountry is MODERATE. Human triggered avalanches are possible. The avalanche problems are concentrated in specific areas, carefully evaluate terrain and snow to determine where localized weaknesses may exist.
Good morning, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for Saturday February 6th, 2016. 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
A storm system moved into the region last night and will produce gusty conditions and bring more snow to the area today. So far the advisory area has only seen a trace to 1 inch of new snow. Winds at Deer mountain are 19mph and gusting to 28mph out of the SW and mountain temperatures are presently hovering around freezing.
The snow from the last storm cycle has settled and is bonding well, however strong winds over the last few days have been able to transport some of the new snow creating thin windslabs. Dudley and I were in the Rattlesnake yesterday and the snow was beginning to feel a bit “slabby”(pic1). Small localized cracking was also observed in the top 6-10 inches of the snowpack (pic2). New snow and strong winds will further develop these wind slabs and they will continue to be our primary avalanche concern today. Assess all leeward terrain carefully and keep in mind that the wind slabs will become more reactive as they continue to grow and get loaded today.
Persistent weak layers can still be found in the advisory area and are a difficult problem to put to bed. The persistent weak layers are not reactive in most areas but basal facets and near surface facets are still out there, carefully asses a slope to determine if a facet layer is present and if it’s reactive. The only way to determine if facets are present is to dig pits and look for them.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
The system moving across the advisory area will bring widespread snow and wind through tomorrow morning. Following the passage of this system a high pressure ridge looks to set up for a couple of days with the potential for inversions. Currently avalanche conditions are not changing significantly but avalanche conditions will likely increase as as more snow is added to the current slabs. Pay attention to winds and how much snow is falling to evaluate conditions as they change.
As always, if you get out into the backcountry let us know what you see on our Public Observation page. The next avalanche advisory will be issued on Tuesday.

moderate

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Scott · Feb 9, 2016

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Avalanche Advisory for February 9, 2016

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Good morning, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for Tuesday February 9th, 2016.
The current avalanche danger for the west central Montana backcountry is LOW. Avalanches may be triggered in isolated areas or extreme terrain specifically as solar radiation peaks in the afternoon. 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
A ridge of high pressure has set up over the advisory area bringing warm day time temperatures. The mild temps have further settled and strengthened the snowpack. Overnight temperatures in the mountains have dropped and are 24-32 degrees across the advisory area. No new snow has accumulated and winds are currently calm at 9mph gusting to 13mph from the South West.
Tim and I rode into the Brushy Fork yesterday and found the snow surface to be warm and wet. Multiple wet point releases were seen on the majority of steep terrain. We also saw rollerballs throughout the day on all aspects. Temperatures will be warm again today and there will likely be significant solar radiation as well, this will lead to more loose snow avalanches. Be aware of the risks of these slides in steep terrain and near terrain traps.
Winds have tapered off following the last storm cycle and the snow surface is getting too dense for transport but windslabs that formed during last weeks storm are still lurking. Pay attention to areas where wind slabs may have formed and evaluate the windslabs carefully. Wind slabs were seen running naturally on friday (public obs) but are strengthening and bonding with time.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
The forecast suggest high pressure will continue to dominate the region bringing warm day time temps to the mountains and setting up conditions for inversions. There is a chance of a low pressure trough moving in this weekend but it’s a bit early to tell when patterns will shift and bring more moisture to the advisory area. Conditions will settle further while the high pressure lingers around, however wet slabs and cornice failure may become a reality if freezing temperatures aren’t reached overnight.
Travis will issue the next avalanche advisory on Thursday.

low

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Scott · Feb 16, 2016

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Avalanche Advisory for February 11, 2016

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The current avalanche danger is LOW in the west central Montana backcountry this morning and will increase to moderate in the afternoon. With rising temperatures and peak solar radiation, steep rocky slopes will have the ability to produce loose wet avalanches in the afternoon.
Good morning, this is Travis Craft with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for February 11, 2016. 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
Today mountain temperatures are 27 F above 7800 ft and all other sites at lower elevations are above freezing. All sites below 7800 ft never got below 32 F in the last 24 hours. Winds are 8 mph with gusts of 14 mph out of the WSW. The advisory area has received no new snow overnight.
Overall the snowpack has settled and we are now in springlike conditions. The avalanche problems are due to solar radiation and rising temperatures throughout the day (Diurnal Fluctuations). The way to manage these types of problems is to move from a sunny aspect to a shadier one throughout the day.
Tim and I toured in the Rattlesnake yesterday and observed loose wet avalanches on steep rocky slopes caused by Monday’s and yesterday’s warm temperatures and solar radiation. The primary avalanche problem today is loose wet avalanches in the afternoon. These are generally not a problem unless they knock you off your feet and take you into a terrain trap (cliff, tree, or gully). If the aspect you are recreating on has pinwheels or rollerballs on it change aspects to shadier one.
The second avalanche problem is cornice failure. The cornices were built up last week from the wind. The warmer temperatures and sun have weakened cornices so give them a wide berth and treat them with respect.
Weather and Avalanche Outlook
We are entering a weather change later today into tonight. We could see some scattered showers with rain to 6000 ft. Friday and Saturday a cold front enters the area and drops the snow line to below 5000 ft. The avalanche danger will stay the same. The key factor to manage loose wet avalanches is aspect. If the aspect you are on has pinwheels or rollerballs change to a shadier one.
Ski and ride safe. I will issue the next advisory on Saturday.

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Scott · Feb 16, 2016

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Avalanche Advisory for February 13, 2016

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The current avalanche danger is Moderate in the west central Montana backcountry on steep slopes(>35 Degrees). Heightened avalanche conditions on specific terrain features. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully; identify features of concern.
Good morning, this is Travis Craft with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for February 13, 2016. 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 are below freezing in all mountain locations. Winds are 26 mph with gusts of 40 mph out of the WNW. The advisory area received 1 to 3 new inches of snow in the last 24 hours.
Steve and I toured in the Rattlesnake yesterday. Brian was in the Bitterroots for the last 3 days. We all found similar conditions. The snow surface was wet and we saw many wet loose avalanches. With the temperatures dropping this morning the snow surface will refreeze. The snow line is around 4000 ft. We are currently receiving snow in the mountains and have high winds. The question to ask today is, how is the new snow bonding to the old snow surface?
The main problem today will be loose dry avalanches. These are usually not a problem unless they take you into a terrain trap (cliff, gully, or tree).
The second problem are wind slabs. As the region accumulates more snow look for active transport by the wind on leeward slopes.

Weather and Avalanche Outlook
A cold front entered our area and is dropping the snow level to 4000 ft. This weather pattern will bring with it moderate snow bursts with high winds. This system will move out of area tonight and be replaced by a more powerful one. The new system will bring the possibility of heavy snow and strong winds. By Monday the snow level is expected to rise to 6000 ft. With these conditions the avalanche danger will increase. Conditions can change rapidly while in the backcountry, pay attention to red flags (shooting cracks, recent avalanche activity, and sudden collapses).
Ski and ride safe. I will issue the next advisory on Tuesday.

moderate

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Scott · Feb 16, 2016

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Avalanche Advisory for February 16, 2016

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The current avalanche danger is Considerable in southern Swan, southern Missions, and Bitterroot ranges on steep(>35 Degrees) wind loaded slopes above 7500 ft. On all other slopes and in the Rattlesnake the danger is moderate.
Careful snowpack evaluation, cautious route-finding and conservative decision making are essential for travel in avalanche terrain today in the southern Swan, southern Missions and Bitterroot ranges above 7500 ft.
Good morning, this is Travis Craft with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for February 16, 2016. 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 are 32 F and above at most mountain locations. Winds are 14 mph with gusts of 28 mph out of the SW. Most sites have recored 1 to 4 inches of new snow overnight.
The Northern ranges and the Bitterroot range both picked up over an 1.5 inches of SWE in the last storm cycle. Yurtski in the southern Swan reported over a 1.5 feet of snow in the last 24 hours that was heavy and wet with strong winds. The snow level in the advisory area is 6500 ft. The new heavy load of snow with strong winds has created considerable avalanche danger on steep(>35 degrees) leeward slopes at elevations 7500 ft and above in all of the advisory area except the Rattlesnake. These wind slabs are the primary concern today.
The second avalanche problem is a persistent slab. The new snow is sitting on a melt freeze crust which has facets below this crust which are failing with Q1 shears in compression tests. Steve and I found a layer of small grained graupel sitting on top of this melt freeze crust that was failing in compression tests in the Rattlesnake. There are some old facet layers deeper in the snowpack which could be reactive to this new heavy load. The only way to find these layers is to dig a pit.
The snowpack is quite diverse right now. The southern Swans, southern Missions and Bitterroot have received more snow and SWE. The Rattlesnake has not received the new load of SWE. The avalanche advisory is a general report of avalanche hazards you will see recreating in the advisory area. The avalanche advisory is a starting point for what problems to look for when choosing to recreate in avalanche terrain. The area we cover is very large and the backcountry is very dynamic, conditions can change rapidly. In the end you must evaluate the slope yourself in the backcountry. There may be localized problems on that slope which were not identified in the advisory that you need to assess.
Weather and Avalanche Outlook
Some light showers are expected today with strong ridgetop winds in the 30’s. Expect the the avalanche danger to stay the same today.
Ski and ride safe. Logan will issue the next advisory on Thursday.

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Scott · Feb 19, 2016

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Avalanche Advisory for February 18, 2016

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The current avalanche danger for the west central Montana backcountry is MODERATE. Human triggered avalanches are possible natural avalanches are unlikely, large avalanches may occur in isolated or wind loaded areas. 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.
Good morning, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for Thursday, February 18th, 2016.
Weather and Snowpack
Temperatures have been unseasonably warm and winds have persisted over the last few days. Currently temperatures at mountain locations are just above freezing and little to no snow has accumulated overnight. Ridge top winds are 18mph and gusting to 28mph out of the SE in the Bitterroot.
Yesterday Tim and I rode up to Rocky Point and found the snow to be settling and bonding well. The primary avalanche concern that we observed were windslabs. We were able to get a propagation on a wind loaded north aspect (pit) and also saw some localized cracking on other wind loaded aspects (pic). Be suspicious of all lee terrain and carefully assess each slope. Not all windslabs we saw were reactive, but the windslabs we did see were widespread and had the potential to be large slides as well as characteristics conducive to step down to a weak interface deeper in the snowpack. Always consider the consequences of getting caught if the slope you are thinking of skiing or riding were to slide.
The snowpack varies greatly with elevation, rain fell earlier this week to around 6500ft and the lower elevations have had a few days to adjust to the rain event and are continuing to lock up. Above about 6500ft the snow is cooler and weaknesses like facets can still be found. There is a melt freeze crust with facets just below that has been observed in the advisory area at higher elevations the last few days and was the layer that we observed propagating yesterday and Travis saw Q1 shears on in the Rattlesnake on Monday. Be mindful of the changing snowpack and look for areas where facets may have formed.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
The weather looks to be shifting towards cooler temperatures and light snowfall should be starting up by this afternoon bringing a few inches of snow to the advisory area by Friday. Colder temperatures and snow should persist into the weekend. Avalanche conditions will remain the same until the snow starts to accumulate but with new snow for transport and strong westerly winds windslabs will continue to grow in size.
The next avalanche advisory will be issued on Saturday.

moderate

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Scott · Feb 23, 2016

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Avalanche Advisory for February 20, 2016

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The current avalanche danger for the west central Montana backcountry is MODERATE. Human triggered avalanches are possible in isolated areas and on specific terrain. 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.
Good morning, this is Logan King with the West Central Montana Avalanche Center’s avalanche advisory for Saturday, February 20th, 2016.
Weather and Snowpack
Mountain temperatures for the advisory area are currently averaging in the mid twenties and the region has seen an additional 2-5 inches of snow overnight. Strong wind gusts continue with Deer Mountain recording winds of 16mph gusting to 49mph from the west early this morning.
The primary avalanche concern today will be storm slabs. We have seen about 10 inches of cold snow over the last few days and this new snow has not bonded to the older and warmer snow. Travis and I were in the Rattlesnake yesterday and found this interface to fail and propagate in extended column tests on north aspects and a skier trigger slide likely slid on this interface on an eastern aspect in Jenny Bowl as well (pic1). We were able to perform stability tests on a NE aspect adjacent to a slope that had a small skier triggered slide (pic2) and found this interface to be sensitive on the NE aspect as well. The cold/warm interface was reactive on variable aspects so take a look at the snow before recreating and see if the new snow is bonding with the old surface, and though the slab is not very large, carefully evaluate the consequences of getting caught on this storm slab.
Winds have primarily been out of the south for the later portion of the week and wind slabs were seen in areas that are usually free of wind affected snow. Some of these wind slabs have proven to be reactive over the week and with more low density snow for transport they continue to grow. Evaluate all slopes carefully and look for signs of wind deposit and ultimately wind slabs. With unusual weather you get unusual avalanche problems and pockets harboring small wind slabs are a real problem as of late, specifically on crossed loaded terrain features. These signs are obvious but easily ignored, be suspicious of any terrain feature that appears to have been wind loaded.
Lastly facets continue to persist in the snowpack, and have been most reactive in areas where they are found under a melt freeze crust. Yesterday the facets at mid elevations on an east aspect were found to be wet and failed and propagated readily in stability tests. Unfortunately facets can be found on nearly all aspects. Particularly problematic are wet and saturated facets on aspects with high solar radiation but facets have also been found on cooler shaded aspects. The more northern aspects are not as reactive but the facets are further developed and still warrant a watchful eye.
Avalanche and Weather Outlook
The current pattern of light intermittent snow will likely continue into tonight bring modest accumulations to the area. Winds are also expected to maintain current intensities through today. Sunday will likely bring more settled conditions before another pulse of snow sunday night followed by warming temperatures again setting up early in the week. With no major changes expected for the next 48 hours avalanche conditions will remain relatively constant through the weekend.
The next avalanche advisory will be issued on Tuesday.

moderate

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April 9, 2016 W. Central Montana avalanche report--READ THIS REPORT--> "NO RATING"--

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

Scott Stiegler

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