Bridger Range

Conditions are generally safe and avalanches are unlikely today. If this evening’s forecast snowfall comes in earlier and heavier than expected, look out for newly forming drifts late this afternoon. A weak snow surface and new snow on the way tonight mean avalanche conditions may be dramatically different tomorrow.

The danger rating bumped up to MODERATE at upper elevations near Cooke City today because the wind picked up yesterday afternoon for the first time since it snowed 3-4 inches there earlier in the week. Look out for fresh wind drifts, particularly up near ridgelines and below cornices. I don’t expect drifts to be particularly thick or widespread, but it’s worth being a bit more on guard today. Either steer around any drifts you find or investigate their stability before getting onto steep slopes.

Other areas either didn’t see increasing winds, or don’t have any recent soft snow available to drift.

Across the rest of the advisory area, avalanches are unlikely and the avalanche danger is LOW. Still, keep an eye out in case you encounter an isolated, thin, unstable wind drift. Cold temperatures this morning are likely the chief hazard today, but still stick to the standard safe avalanche travel protocols of carrying rescue gear, going one at a time on steep slopes and having a partner watching from a safe spot.

I don’t expect much new snow before nightfall, but if this evening’s forecast snowfall comes in earlier and heavier than expected, look out for newly forming drifts late this afternoon. 

Avalanche conditions may be dramatically different tomorrow. The forecast snowfall totals aren’t huge, but during this dry spell weak snow has developed at the snow surface on many/most slopes (observation, observation, observation). New snow falling and drifting onto these weak snow surfaces may be touchier tomorrow than they would be otherwise. Make sure to check the forecast tomorrow morning before heading out.