Flathead Range & Glacier NP

Enjoy a generally stable snowpack while looking for potential problems. Be aware of older, thin slabs of wind-blown snow near ridgelines and summits. Natural or rider-triggered loose snow slides will be small but could knock you off your feet or machine. 

The Flathead has not had measurable snowfall for around two weeks, allowing us to drop the avalanche danger to LOW for seven consecutive days. However, it is not entirely open season, and we must consider several potential hazards. 

This morning, we removed wind slab from the problem list. Thursday's wind blew the minor amount of snow available for transport into small, thin slabs at upper elevations, which have had a couple of days to strengthen. However, the cold temperatures are slowing the strengthening process, and some of these features may have formed on a weak faceted surface. Before committing to a consequential line, evaluate any steep, wind-loaded slope. 

Recent observations report natural and rider-triggered dry loose slides in the weak, faceted surface snow on shaded aspects (Image) where the extended period of cold temperatures has left a cohesionless surface. Sluffs occurred yesterday on sunny slopes (Image), where sunshine initiated tree bombs and snow peeling off rock faces. Sluffs should remain shallow and small but can travel long distances. They will be harmless unless they knock you off your feet or machine and push you into a surface obstacle or terrain trap. 

Reports of glide cracks and avalanches continue to trickle in from all zones (Image, Image). These are unpredictable hazards, and avoidance is the best option for mitigating this problem. When these cracks fail, it is often catastrophically and involves the entire seasonal snowpack. Keep an eye on the slopes above and below you while traveling through the mountains. 

Interested in learning more? Check out our events calendar! There is a Ladies Intro to Avalanches course on Saturday, February 1st.