21-22

<p>Triggering large avalanches remains possible in the mountains around Cooke City. Last weekend’s snowfall and continuing wind drifting have loaded a weak layer buried around a foot and a half under the snow surface (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQDLaHsyinU"><strong><u>video</u></stro…;). This weak layer is categorized as<em> persistent</em>, which means it will stick around and remain an issue for quite a while after being loaded. Winds this morning are the strongest they’ve been since the last snowfall. More snow is being transported and drifting into thicker slabs which could be triggered today. The snowfall forecast today is uncertain, but any new snow will add to the snow available for transport and drifting. Look for collapses, shooting cracks, and especially recent avalanches, as clear signs to avoid avalanche terrain. Large avalanches are possible and the avalanche danger is rated MODERATE.</p>

<p>Conditions are generally stable and large avalanches are unlikely across the rest of the advisory area. The primary concern is a weak layer 12-18” under the surface. While this weak layer is widespread it is only unstable in isolated areas where wind drifting has capped it with a dense slab of snow. The small avalanche that killed a snowmobiler last Sunday in Lionhead is a pointed reminder to stay on alert even when avalanches are unlikely (<a href="https://www.mtavalanche.com/accident/22/02/09"><strong><u>details</u></…;). Yesterday in the northern Bridger Range I found a snowpack that had been hammered by the wind (and stripped to dirt in many places), leaving generally stable conditions until it snows next (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_EceIGw-UY"><strong><u>video</u></stro…;

<p>Keep your eyes open for signs of instability and keep adhering to safe travel practices as insurance in case you get surprised by an isolated instability. Always carry rescue gear (beacon, shovel, probe). Go one at a time on steep slopes. And keep an eye on your partners while they’re on those steep slopes. For today the avalanche danger is rated LOW in the mountains from Bozeman to West Yellowstone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If you get out, please send us your observations no matter how brief. You can submit them via our <a href="https://www.mtavalanche.com/node/add/snow_observation"><strong><u>websi…;, email (<a href="mailto:mtavalanche@gmail.com"><strong><u>mtavalanche@gmail.com</u></str…;), phone (406-587-6984), or Instagram (#gnfacobs).</p>

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