Snowpack and Avalanche Discussion
<p>Since yesterday morning, a potent spring storm dropped 6-12” of heavy dense snow in the mountains across the forecast area. This latest round of moisture pushed three day precipitation totals upwards of 2.5-3” (<strong><a href="https://www.mtavalanche.com/weather/wx-avalanche-log">weather log</a></strong>). On slopes below 8,500’, the new snow has been deposited on a wet and saturated snowpack (<u><strong><a href="https://www.mtavalanche.com/images/19/snowpit-bridger">photo</a></stron…;). The combination of dry snow on the surface and wet snow near the ground will create funky and unpredictable conditions today.</p>
<p>Slides originating in the new snow could gouge into saturated layers deep in the pack, producing large and dangerous avalanches (<strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=foYa455ltOg&list=PLXu5151nmAvRNl9ku…;). Today, use extra caution when traveling on or underneath steep slopes. Avalanches will be easy to trigger, making cautious route finding and conservative decision making essential. </p>
<p>On slopes above 9,000’, wind slabs and storm slabs are the primary concerns. Yesterday, Big Sky Ski Patrol triggered slides on the upper mountain that were big enough to bury a skier or rider. These slides were most prevalent on slopes loaded by westerly winds and stayed confined to the new snow. Skiers outside of Cooke City did not report widespread instability but did find over a foot of new snow which relegated them to low angle terrain choices.</p>
<p>Additional snow and wind today will keep the avalanche danger elevated across the forecast area. Today, don’t become tempted to shoot for your favorite steep lines with all the new snow – keep in mind dangerous avalanche conditions exist. It’s important to note that Bridger Bowl is no longer operating and holds backcountry conditions which means no ski patrol are on duty. If the sun comes out tomorrow, wet snow avalanches will be a growing concern. </p>
<p>If you get out and have any avalanche or snowpack observations to share, contact us via our <u><a href="https://www.mtavalanche.com/node/add/snow_observation">website</a></u>, email (<u><a href="mailto:mtavalanche@gmail.com">mtavalanche@gmail.com</a></u>), phone (406-587-6984), or Instagram (#gnfacobs).</p>
Info and Announcements
We will issue weather and snowpack updates on Monday and Friday mornings for most of April, and update our weather log daily.
The Hyalite road is closed to motorized travel until May 16th. Bike and foot traffic is allowed.
