Kalispell, Mont. – Backcountry travel in northwest Montana could turn deadly within hours as rain and rising temperatures destabilize mountain snowpack above 5,000 feet Saturday.
According to the Flathead Avalanche Center, a backcountry avalanche warning took effect at 6 a.m. Saturday and remains in place until 6 a.m. Sunday for the Flathead Range and parts of Glacier National Park, including Lake McDonald and Marias Pass. Forecasters warn both natural and human-triggered avalanches are likely during this window.
Heavy, wet snow is combining with buried weak layers several feet deep, creating the potential for large, destructive slides. These avalanches can travel long distances, reaching valley floors and even dense forest areas. In Glacier National Park, terrain near U.S. Highway 2 at Marias Pass could see increased risk, especially near steep, loaded slopes.
Emergency officials urge people to avoid all avalanche terrain, including backcountry skiing, snowmobiling, and hiking in steep areas. Even flat terrain below slopes is not safe due to long-running slide potential. Anyone in the region should monitor updates and avoid non-essential travel in mountainous zones.
Dangerous conditions will persist through Saturday night, and additional advisories may be issued if warming continues.
