3/25/2008

Skiers, snowmobilers and other winter recreationists are advised that winter avalanche conditions remain in the mountains of Northwest Montana. Recent avalanche advisories, issued by the Glacier Country Avalanche Center and the Flathead National Forest, have rated the backcountry avalanche danger as moderate to considerable with human triggered avalanches being possible to probable.

According to Flathead National Forest Avalanche Specialist Stan Bones, unseasonable avalanche activity continues in Northwest Montana. Bones said, "Currently we're seeing enduring winter-like snow conditions, similar to those found in February. A persisting buried weak layer exists, particularly on steep and sun-shaded northerly aspects."

Continuing cool temperatures and limited new snow loading have preserved this weak layer now for nearly six weeks. Over the last month several instances have occurred where skiers and snowmobilers have triggered slab avalanches on this layer. "Until more spring-like snow conditions develop, we expect this weakness to persist and remain potentially hazardous," said Bones.

All winter recreationists are reminded to be prepared for the backcountry, and always stay current with the local weather conditions and avalanche danger. As conditions warrant, avalanche advisories for Northwest Montana will continue to be issued. Advisories include information about snowpack conditions, weather forecasts, and hazard evaluations.

Visit the Glacier Country Avalanche Center web site, www.glacieravalanche.org or call 406-257-8402 for these advisories. Anyone traveling in the backcountry will always need to make their own time and site specific avalanche hazard evaluations.