Avalanche Forecast published on November 22, 2016 @ 10:09 am
Issued by Todd Hannan - Flathead National Forest

Whitefish Range
Swan Range
Flathead Range and Glacier National Park

How to read the forecast

Snow showers since last weekend amounted to total snow depths across the area ranging from 17 to 40 inches. Recent snow combined with wind, low coverage, and uncertainty in conditions warrants careful evaluation before recreating on any slope. Remember that if there is enough snow to ski or ride, then there is enough snow to avalanche. We will continue to update information without hazard ratings as conditions warrant until we receive/collect more snowpack data.

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Above 6500 ft.

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5000-6500 ft.

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3500-5000 ft.
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Observations Page

Since Saturday morning (11/19) an additional 7-12 inches of snow accumulated across the advisory area. Wind speeds in that period were up to the mid-30s mph, drifted the new snow, and likely formed thin slabs along leeward ridgelines. Given the early season conditions, these wind-loaded areas will be the most filled in and the most attractive slopes to play on. Unfortunately, these are also the slopes most likely to slide.

Remember, avalanches can happen any time of the year. The effect of small avalanches can be amplified by thin snow cover, exposed hazards, and narrow gullies. If there is enough snow to ski or ride, it's deep enough to slide.

Before heading out in the backcountry it is important to check your gear that has been stored all summer. Look for any damage to shovels and probes that you neglected to repair/replace in the warm weather. Dont forget the fresh batteries for your beacon and practice using it with your partner. Finally, start to think snow/snowpack. A great way to dust off the cob webs is to join us for one of our upcoming avalanche awareness presentations. See upcoming events here.

HOW TO SUBMIT OBSERVATIONS:

Email: [email protected]

Call and leave a message: 406.387.3821

You can also submit quick observations via text: 406.241.4571 (FAC mobile)

OR

Submit Snowpack Observations: http://www.flatheadavalanche.org/node/add/snowobs

Submit Avalanche Observations: http://www.flatheadavalanche.org/node/add/avyobs

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Join the Friends of the Flathead Avalanche Center (FOFAC) and The Patrol Fund for a fundraiser for avalanche education. It's an 80s-themed party with a costume contest, raffle prizes (including skis), and a ton of fun.

Doors open at 8:00 pm.

 

 

recent observations

Skiers in the Swan Range on Friday (11/18) found 6-8 inches of recent snow that did not bond well with the older snow surface and triggered loose snow avalanches (sluffs) while skiing. The same party returned to the area on Sunday and noted 2 inches of higher density snow on the surface that would slide on the unconsolidated snow in wind affected areas.

Weather and CURRENT CONDITIONS
Disclaimer

This advisory applies only to backcountry areas outside established ski area boundaries. This advisory describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur. This advisory expires at midnight on the posted day unless otherwise noted. The information in this advisory is provided by the USDA Forest Service who is solely responsible for its content.