Storm may ramp up avalanche danger

Northwest Montana’s avalanche hazards are expected to escalate this weekend.

The National Weather Service is predicting a strong cold front extending into this morning will bring moderate to heavy snow, mainly on higher terrain and mountain passes, along with gusty winds.

The Flathead Avalanche Center advises that after weeks of no change in the avalanche hazard evaluations, there may be a danger of complacency among backcountry travelers.

“Please adjust your ‘go-for-it’ meters if we get significant new loading from new snow accumulations, wind transport, or both,” the advisory states. “If this weekend’s storm cycle hits our region, stay on low-angle sheltered terrain and avoid steep open slopes.”

More information can be found online at www.flatheadavalanche.org.