Avalanche Forecast published on November 26, 2016 @ 7:20 am
Issued by Mark Dundas - Flathead National Forest

Whitefish Range
Swan Range
Flathead Range and Glacier National Park

How to read the forecast

Recent snow combined with wind continues to load upper elevation leeward aspects. Look for obvious signs of instability such as shooting cracks, whumpfing or hollow sounds. Due to the lack of early season observations carefully evaluate all slopes 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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Over the past 7 days upper elevation weather stations are reporting an additional settled snow depth of 7-14 inches. Current snow pack depths range from 21 inches at Noisy Basin to 41 inches at Stahl Peak. Wind speeds in that period were light to moderate which has 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

On Thanksgiving Day (11/24) skiers in the northern Whitefish Range reported that above 6000 feet there was a thin but skiable "right side up" snowpack.  Moderate to strong winds were transporting snow onto typical (easterly) leeward aspects throughout their tour.  No other signs of instability were noted.

Weather and CURRENT CONDITIONS
Weather Station Map
Weather Station Table
weather summary

A pleasant day with above normal temperatures is expected for today (Saturday). As of 0600 temperatures at upper elevation weather stations range from the mid-20's to low 30's with light winds accompanied by moderate gusts. New snow totals over the past 24 hours range from 1-5 inches. Cooler temperatures with light snowfall return to our area Sunday with  the possiblity of a stronger system impacting our area Monday into Tuesday. 

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.