It’s important to pay attention to the first storms and weather patterns as they affect snowpack development. These first few storms will begin to form the “base” of the snowpack and could influence not just current but future slope stability. Even though it may not seem like there is a lot of snow on the ground yet avalanches can occur. As long as there is enough snow to ride or ski, there is enough snow to avalanche. This new snow and accompanying winds have probably formed fresh wind and storms slabs already. If you are going to brave the cold and head into the backcountry remember to carry your avalanche safety gear (beacon, shovel, and probe). Pay attention to changing weather and snowpack conditions.

As we here at the avalanche center begin to remember how to tickle the throttle and turn our skis we will head out into the backcountry and begin to get a handle on the snowpack. As we do we will publish updates as necessary. Formal advisories will likely begin the first week in December or when conditions warrant.

It's also a good idea to start brushing away the cobwebs in the part of your brain that thinks about avalanches, and attend one of the upcoming classes this fall (calendar). We will conduct avalanche awareness classes for both motorized and non-motorized audiences. Many of these classes are hosted by local shops and retailers, and we appreciate their support in helping educate backcountry users.

While you are dreaming about powder-filled slopes you might also check out the online tutorials under the Education tab. There are a number of resources from the National Avalanche Center and the American Avalanche Association. There is also a great tutorial from Avalanche Canada as well as their Throttle Decisions video series. 

Also, the Friends of the Flathead Avalanche Center (FOFAC) host this website and are passionate about supporting FAC and avalanche education in northwest Montana. Learn more about FOFAC and their mission. They are also hosting a Snowball on Saturday, December 6, 2014 at the Great Northern Bar and Grill. Joing them and us in kicking off the winter!