Avalanche Hazard Rating Summary 03/09/10

  • MODERATE
    Unanchored slopes, Between 5000 ft & 7500 ft
    LOW
    Anchored Slopes Below 7500ft & All Slopes and All Aspects Below 5000ft
    Northwest Montana

    We're currently rating the avalanche danger between the elevations of 5,000 and 7,500 ft. as MODERATE on all large, steep, open slopes lacking vegetative and terrain anchors. Unstable deep slab layers are possible. Natural avalanches are unlikely, but human triggered avalanches are possible. Backcountry travelers should use caution in big, steep, open terrain on all aspects. On anchored slopes below 7,500 ft. and all slopes, all aspects, below 5,000 ft., we're rating the avalanche danger as LOW. The shallow snow there is generally stable with only isolated areas of instability. Natural avalanches are very unlikely, while human triggered avalanches are unlikely. Backcountry travel is generally safe. Normal caution is advised.



<< CLICK HERE FOR HAZARD RATING KEY
LOW DANGER ...snow is generally stable with only isolated areas of instability. Natural avalanches are very unlikely, while human triggered avalanches are unlikely. Backcountry travel is generally safe. Normal caution is advised.

MODERATE DANGER ...unstable slab layers are possible on steep terrain. Natural avalanches are unlikely, while human triggered avalanches are possible. Backcountry travelers should use caution in steeper terrain on certain aspects.

CONSIDERABLE DANGER ...unstable slab layers are probable on steep terrain. Natural avalanches are possible, while human triggered avalanches are probable. Backcountry travelers should be very cautious in steeper terrain. Be aware of potentially dangerous areas of unstable snow.

HIGH DANGER ...unstable slab layers are likely on a variety of aspects and slope angles. Both natural and human triggered avalanches are likely. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended. Safest travel is on windward ridges or on lower angle slopes without steeper terrain above.

EXTREME DANGER ...extremely unstable slab layers exist on most aspects and slope angles. Widespread natural and human triggered avalanches are certain . Large destructive avalanches are possible. Travel in avalanche terrain should be avoided and travel confined to low angle terrain well away from avalanche path runouts.

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Wed Mar 24, 2010 Special Topic Series: NW Montana Late Winter and Spring Season Weather, Snow, and Avalanche Conditions
GCAC Mission Statement: To support professional and recreational avalanche safety information and education to backcountry travelers, governments, organizations, businesses and citizens in northwest Montana, in partnership with this United States Forest Service.

Advisory Hotline : (406) 257-8402