Good morning. This is Mark Staples with the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Advisory issued on Thursday, January 24 at 7:30 a.m. Grizzly Outfitters, in partnership with the Friends of the Avalanche Center, sponsor today’s advisory. This advisory does not apply to operating ski areas.
This morning mountain temperatures were in the high 20s and low 30s F. Winds increased yesterday afternoon. This morning they were averaging 20 mph with gusts of 30-40 mph from the SW. No snow fell overnight but a little snow was just starting to fall this morning. Don’t get too excited because only an inch or two will accumulate today. Temperatures will drop a little by afternoon and winds will blow 15 mph gusting to 30 mph from the W.
Bridger Range Madison Range Gallatin Range
Lionhead area near West Yellowstone Cooke City
The snowpack is mostly stable and generally safe avalanche conditions exist. Avalanches are a matter of timing, and now is a good time to ride in avalanche terrain. However, the probability of triggering an avalanche is never zero as illustrated by two recent, small slides near West Yellowstone.
Yesterday I rode on Lionhead, Doug skied in the southern Madison Range, and Eric skied in Hyalite Canyon. As in most parts of the advisory area, we found stable conditions, but there are two things to consider. One, a layer of faceted crystals exists 6-16 inches deep. Recent warm weather and a lack of stress from new snow have helped this layer gain strength. Since it’s not buried very deep and could produce an avalanche, look for this layer and perform a few stability tests. Two, a new layer of faceted crystals (photo) and/or surface hoar (photo) exist on slopes sheltered from the wind where good powder can still be found. This layer will be a problem if enough snow falls to build a slab on top of it.
Today human triggered avalanches are unlikely and the avalanche danger is LOW.
I will issue the next advisory tomorrow morning at 7:30 a.m. If you have any snowpack or avalanche observations drop us a line at mtavalanche@gmail.com or call us at 587-6984.
OTHER RELEVANT STUFF
No Snow, Big Problem. Read an article on how surface snow can become the next weak layer and future avalanche problem.
Practice using your beacon. The Friends of the Avalanche Center in partnership with the City of Bozeman Recreation Department recently installed a beacon training site at Beall Park on North Black Avenue. It’s free and easy to use.
Lost ski boots. A pair of ski boots was found in Hyalite Canyon at the Grotto Falls trailhead. If they are yours, email us.
In Bozeman, Wednesday (1/30) and Thursday (1/31) evenings and all day Saturday (2/02), we are teaching an Advanced Avalanche Workshop with Field Course at MSU. Registration is required. For more info and to register, visit: https://www.ticketriver.com/event/4974-advanced-avalanche-workshop-with-field-course
In Helena, next Thursday (1/31) at 6:30 p.m., the Friends are giving a free 1-hour Avalanche Awareness lecture at Exploration Works (995 Carousel Way).
In Bozeman, on Wednesday, February 6, REI is hosting a 1-hour Avalanche Awareness lecture for Women. Space is limited and registration is required: http://www.rei.com/event/47916/session/64605