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GNFAC Avalanche Advisory for Mon Mar 16, 2015

Snowpack and Avalanche Discussion

Bridger Range   Madison Range   Gallatin Range 

Lionhead Area near West Yellowstone   Cooke City

It's official - the snowpack is coming unglued. It has been nearly 72 hours without a freeze and the snow is quickly losing cohesion and strength. Yesterday, skiers near Cooke City observed wet loose avalanches on steep, north facing slopes and the Bridger Bowl Ski Patrol kept the Ridge closed all day due to a weakening snowpack.

GNFAC Avalanche Forecast for Sun Mar 15, 2015

Snowpack and Avalanche Discussion

Bridger Range   Madison Range   Gallatin Range   

Lionhead Area near West Yellowstone   Cooke City

Today, snow conditions will be a lot worse than the avalanche danger. Although temps did not drop below freezing last night, a mostly clear sky and strong winds will allow for some surface cooling which will create a crust on the snow surface. This curst might be supportable on some slopes and breakable on others.

GNFAC Avalanche Forecast for Tue Mar 10, 2015

Snowpack and Avalanche Discussion

Bridger Range   Madison Range   Gallatin Range   Lionhead Area near West Yellowstone   Cooke City

Everyone reading this advisory is probably on the edge of their seat wondering, “What’s the avalanche danger today?”  Well, I won’t prolong the suspense, I’ll just tell you up front: the dry snow avalanche danger is LOW and avalanches are unlikely today.