Hungry Horse, Montana – Backcountry conditions across northwest Montana could become life-threatening before Tuesday afternoon as more than a foot of new snow and gusty winds rapidly build unstable slopes.
According to the Flathead Avalanche Center in Hungry Horse, a Backcountry Avalanche Watch is in effect through 2 p.m. Tuesday for mid and upper elevations of the Swan, Flathead, and Whitefish Ranges, along with portions of Glacier National Park including the Apgar Range, Lake McDonald Valley, and Marias Pass. Avalanche danger is expected to rise to High (Level 4 of 5) as the incoming storm intensifies.
Forecasters say a foot or more of new snow will overload weak layers already present in the snowpack. Moderate winds will drift snow into steep start zones, making large to very large natural and human-triggered avalanches likely. Remote triggers are also possible, meaning slides could release from below or from adjacent terrain.
Avalanches may run long distances into mature forests, valley floors, and flat terrain. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended. Conditions will remain volatile through Tuesday afternoon, and additional alerts may follow if snowfall exceeds projections.
