12-13

While the government was shut down, Mother Nature stayed hard at work. Over the past few weeks, a series of storms have kept the mountains unusually white for this time of year. In most mountain locations, one to two feet of snow exists above 8,000 ft. 

More often than not, deep snow in October does more harm than good. The reason being, shallow-early season snowpacks are frequently exposed to strong temperature gradients, making them a weak foundation for future snows. However, if the snow keeps coming or if temperatures stay at or above average, a strong base could develop.    

The first real snow storm of the season has come and gone. Thankfully, there were no skiing related accidents reported over the weekend. As we move into October, it's important that backcountry recreationalists, including hunters, continue to think about avalanches.

Skiing in September? To most that sounds crazy, but for those willing to put skis and limb on the line it can happen. Skiing this time of year typically requires finding a narrow strip of wind-blown snow, often no wider than a single lane road. If you’re lucky you’ll get 8-10 unhindered turns before crashing into rocks.

Some avalanche concerns to keep in mind:

1. NEW SNOW AND WIND-LOADING

The greatest avalanche concern is new snowfall and wind-loading. The likelihood of triggering avalanches spikes during and immediately after significant snow storms. Wind loaded slopes, usually found near ridgelines, are especially dangerous. Any instability associated with the new and/or windblown snow can easily be found in the upper few feet of the snowpack. Instabilities associated with new snowfall are typically around for only a few days.

2. WET SNOW AVALANCHES

Bridger Range   Madison Range   Gallatin Range   

Lionhead area near West Yellowstone   Cooke City

Bridger Range   Madison Range   Gallatin Range   

Lionhead area near West Yellowstone   Cooke City

Yesterday it rained in the valleys and snowed above 8-9,000 feet. The snowfall measured up to15% density and stuck well to the old snow surface, which was beginning to re-freeze. This is very good news because cold temperatures will continue to penetrate and cement the snowpack creating generally safe avalanche conditions.  

Bridger Range   Madison Range   Gallatin Range   

Lionhead area near West Yellowstone   Cooke City