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Bridger Range   Madison Range   Gallatin Range   Cooke City

Lionhead area near West Yellowstone

Temperatures did not drop below freezing last night. However, clear skies allowed for radiational cooling, which will firm up the snow surface. This will eliminate the wet snow avalanche hazard during the early morning hours.

The mountains around Cooke City got lucky last night and picked up 6-8” of snow totaling .8” of SWE. This new snow will improve riding conditions, but it will also bump up the avalanche danger. Wind slabs and wet loose avalanches will both be a concern today. Wind slabs will be most widespread on upper elevation slopes leeward to W-SW winds. These won’t be exceptionally large, but they could pack enough punch to ruin the day and send you back to the pub.

Today, wet snow avalanches are the primary concern. Below 9,000’, temperatures have not dropped below freezing for multiple days (video).

Bridger Range Madison Range Gallatin Range

Lionhead area near West Yellowstone Cooke City

Roller balls are a sign that the surface of the snow is getting moist and weak. Photo: G. Antonioli

Roller balls are a sign that the surface of the snow is getting moist and weak. Photo: G. Antonioli

Cornices have grown large and overhang far over the edge. They are ready to break, especially with the warmer, above freezing temperatures. Photo: G. Antonioli