Use this page to view archived advisories. The table below shows the overall danger rating and the bottom line for the 20 most recent advisories. Click on the time and date link above each danger rating icon to view the full advisory for that day. Use the date chooser or the pager at the bottom to scroll through the older advisories.
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Click here to see the full advisory for 2019-01-08 January 8, 2019 at 6:37 ![]() |
New snow and wind loading are the topics of the day! The forecast area recieved a new blanket of snow over the past 48 hours, with more to come. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2019-01-08 January 8, 2019 at 4:58 ![]() |
Sunday nights storm dropped 12-18" of snow on the Cabinet Mountains. This new snow formed sensitive storm slabs that will be reactive in steep terrain, give the new snow time to settle and strengthen before venturing into steep terrain this week. In the Purcells the "persistent slab" problem continues to lurk, it is a low-likelihood/high consequence scenario. Practice safe travel habits and use caution in likely "trigger spots" such as steep, convex rolls and areas where the snowpack is thin. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2019-01-04 January 4, 2019 at 7:00 ![]() |
Strong south-westerly winds combined with additional snowfall will create sensitive windslabs on steep, leeward terrain. These slabs will continue to build through Friday. New storm snow will also raise the avalanche hazard going into the weekend as new, dense snow will create a cohesive slab layer and add stress to the existing weak layers within the snowpack. Give the snowpack time to adjust to this change and avoid steep terrain (over 30°) through the weekend. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2019-01-04 January 4, 2019 at 6:22 ![]() |
Heavy snow and high winds will create wind and storm slabs on a dense snow pack with increasing avalanche hazard. The overall hazard rating is considerable for the Selkirk and Cabinets. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2019-01-04 January 4, 2019 at 5:28 ![]() |
Strong south-westerly winds combined with additional snowfall will create sensitive windslabs on steep, leeward terrain. These slabs will continue to build through Friday. New storm snow will also raise the avalanche hazard going into the weekend as new, dense snow will create a cohesive slab layer and add stress to the existing weak layers within the snowpack. Give the snowpack time to adjust to this change and avoid steep terrain (over 30°) through the weekend. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2019-01-04 January 4, 2019 at 5:13 ![]() |
With just enough snow and wind yesterday, wind slabs will be our main concern today and through the weekend. Pay attention to our traditional start zones on the N-NE-E aspects as they will be sensitive. Also, our couple of problem layers keep getting buried a little deeper each storm, but it is important to keep those in mind as we get further into the new year. Pay attention to your terrain choices and watch for signs of instability. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2019-01-01 January 1, 2019 at 6:13 ![]() |
Happy New Year everyone! Looks like we have a beautiful day today for sliding in the mountains with a little fresh snow to touch things up. Just remember, even though it's a new year and conditions are good, accidents can still happen. The bottom line is we have some wind slabs on easterly aspects and a couple deeper weak layers to keep in mind. Pay attention to your terrain choices and watch for signs of instability. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2019-01-01 January 1, 2019 at 6:13 ![]() |
Happy New Year everyone! Looks like we have a beautiful day today for sliding in the mountains with a little fresh snow to touch things up. Just remember, even though it's a new year and conditions are good, accidents can still happen. The bottom line is we have some wind slabs on easterly aspects and a couple deeper weak layers to keep in mind. Pay attention to your terrain choices and watch for signs of instability. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2019-01-01 January 1, 2019 at 6:13 ![]() |
Happy New Year everyone! Looks like we have a beautiful day today for sliding in the mountains with a little fresh snow to touch things up. Just remember, even though it's a new year and conditions are good, accidents can still happen. The bottom line is we have some wind slabs on easterly aspects and a couple deeper weak layers to keep in mind. Pay attention to your terrain choices and watch for signs of instability. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2019-01-01 January 1, 2019 at 5:50 ![]() |
The most recent storm has created wind slabs on north-easterly facing terrain at treeline and above. Avoid steep terrrain on these aspects near ridge-lines and pay attention to gullies that may be "cross-loaded" in steep, open terrain. The recent loading has also caused the persistent weak layers to become more reactive in areas where the snowpack is thin and weak. Use caution in areas where the snow is thin and pay attention to collapsing and cracking snow as you travel. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-28 December 28, 2018 at 6:03 ![]() |
The colder air temperature and minimal winds from the past couple days has kept the snow surface nice and fluffy! Even though the weather has been pretty stable, we're still seeing changes happen in the snowpack. Current snow conditions (thick stiff slab of snow with light new snow on top) are making backcountry travel a little easier right now, so don't be tempted to travel in places your gut is telling you to stay off of. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-28 December 28, 2018 at 6:03 ![]() |
The colder air temperature and minimal winds from the past couple days has kept the snow surface nice and fluffy! Even though the weather has been pretty stable, we're still seeing changes happen in the snowpack. Current snow conditions (thick stiff slab of snow with light new snow on top) are making backcountry travel a little easier right now, so don't be tempted to travel in places your gut is telling you to stay off of. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-28 December 28, 2018 at 6:03 ![]() |
The colder air temperature and minimal winds from the past couple days has kept the snow surface nice and fluffy! Even though the weather has been pretty stable, we're still seeing changes happen in the snowpack. Current snow conditions (thick stiff slab of snow with light new snow on top) are making backcountry travel a little easier right now, so don't be tempted to travel in places your gut is telling you to stay off of. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-28 December 28, 2018 at 5:15 ![]() |
Generally stable snowpack conditions exist below treeline. Above treeline there are still persistent weak-layers within the snowpack, the Purcell Mountains are where you are most likely to find these weak layers. Human triggered avalanches are not likely; but, will be large and have high consequences if triggered. Moving forward into the weekend there is the potential for stability to decline if the next predicted storm materializes. Continue to practice safe travel habits and keep an eye on the weather. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-25 December 25, 2018 at 6:14 ![]() |
Merry Christmas backcountry friends! If you get out today to enjoy the backcountry, you may be greeted by sunshine and nice sliding conditions! Even though we'll have a break in the weather for the next 30 hours or so, don't let your guard down! Remember: Persistant weak layers don't care that it's Christmas! Don't let the avalanche grinch steal your fun today! |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-25 December 25, 2018 at 6:14 ![]() |
Merry Christmas backcountry friends! If you get out today to enjoy the backcountry, you may be greeted by sunshine and nice sliding conditions! Even though we'll have a break in the weather for the next 30 hours or so, don't let your guard down! Remember: Persistant weak layers don't care that it's Christmas! Don't let the avalanche grinch steal your fun today! |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-25 December 25, 2018 at 6:14 ![]() |
Merry Christmas backcountry friends! If you get out today to enjoy the backcountry, you may be greeted by sunshine and nice sliding conditions! Even though we'll have a break in the weather for the next 30 hours or so, don't let your guard down! Remember: Persistant weak layers don't care that it's Christmas! Don't let the avalanche grinch steal your fun today! |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-24 December 24, 2018 at 16:14 ![]() |
Generally stable snowpack conditions exist below treeline. Above treeline there are still persistent weak-layers within the snowpack, the Purcell Mountains are where you are most likely to find these weak layers. Human triggered avalanches are not likely; but, will be large and have high consequences if triggered. Moving forward into the weekend there is the potential for stability to decline if the next predicted storm materializes. Continue to practice safe travel habits and keep an eye on the weather. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-21 December 21, 2018 at 6:53 ![]() |
Since December 18th the Selkirks and Cabinets have picked up about 10 inches of new snow. Last night the mountains received another 3-5 inches of new snow and that was accompanied by strong winds and dropping temperatures. That will have created some heavy windloading on all easterly aspects as well as north and potentially northwest. It would be wise to avoid ridgetop loading areas for today and possibly the weekend. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-21 December 21, 2018 at 6:17 ![]() |
Overnight another round of snow has added loading to a pack that was still adjusting from the storms earlier in the week. With winds in the 40's last night, expect to see widespread wind slabs on the leeward slopes and cross loaded gullies. There is still a persistent weak layer in many locations; it was active in pit tests yesterday. Assess each location you plan on riding or sliding to see how reactive this layer is. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-21 December 21, 2018 at 5:11 ![]() |
Strong southwesterly winds and a dose of fresh snow have created sensitive wind slabs on leeward terrain above treeline. Avoid steep slopes (over 30°) on north-east aspects below ridgelines and cross loaded gullies. Pay attention to changes in surface density and watch for "pillows" and "lens shaped" features in the upper snowpack. These windslabs will likely be sensitive through the weekend. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-18 December 18, 2018 at 7:04 ![]() |
The warm temperatures over the past couple days have helped the snowpack heal up quite a bit, especially at the mid and low elevations. There are still several lurking dragons buried at our upper elevations to be aware of. Expect the avalanche danger to increase as this new storm arriving deposits a large amount of heavy, warm snow accompanied by strong winds. Avoid riding on or below slopes steeper than 30 degrees until this snow has had time to adjust. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-18 December 18, 2018 at 6:26 ![]() |
The snowpack looked to be healing quite a bit...until today! A strong winter storm is showing up as I type. Heavy snow and wind will dominate our weather for the next 24 hours. The areas of most concern will be steep, wind loaded slopes as well as slopes near exposed rock outcroppings. My advise is "Be pacient". I anticipate this snow being a good thing for our base but might need a couple of days to stablize. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-18 December 18, 2018 at 5:25 ![]() |
A subtropical storm will push through the forecast area on Tuesday and Wednesday bringing heavy mountain snow and strong southwesterly winds. This will create thick and reactive storms slabs to build above 4,500'. Expect avalanche danger to rise as this storm materializes. Avoid riding on or below slopes steeper than 30° until this snow has had time to settle. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-14 December 14, 2018 at 7:06 ![]() |
Last week's cold, dry weather left us with a blanket of well-developed surface hoar that was subsequently buried by 10 to 15 inches of snow from the Monday through Thursday storms. Especially at higher elevations, this surface hoar was buried intact forming a weak layer under our new storm slab. Strong winds accompanied the new precipitation that came in yesterday and will continue to move snow around creating wind slabs on the ridges and mountain tops. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-14 December 14, 2018 at 5:29 ![]() |
Fresh storm snow and strong southwest winds have created slabs on leeward slopes in high alpine terrain. Below tree line be alert to the possibility to trigger storm slabs in areas where this weeks storm snow is overlying a layer of buried surface hoar. Pay attention to changes as strong winds and additional snow are forecast Friday night into Saturday morning. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-13 December 13, 2018 at 17:10 ![]() |
The avalanche danger is MODERATE with isolated areas of CONSIDERABLE on open windloaded NNE aspects above 35 degrees. Recent new snow and high winds have loaded up these slopes with 4' + windslabs that sit atop an icecrust in the middle of the pack with surface hoar present a few inches above the crust. These layers were found on all aspects at 6000 feet. More snow and winds expected tonight through tomorrow. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-11 December 11, 2018 at 10:35 ![]() |
IPAC will begin issuing regularly scheduled avalanche forecasts beginning this Friday, December 14th. Forecasts will be posted twice a week, Tuesday and Fridays. You can get forecast information here, the IPAC facebook page, and our phone hotline at 208 765-7323. As usual, we are interested in hearing what you are seeing out there. Please help us make the forecast better by posting relevant info on our observations page. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-11 December 11, 2018 at 10:35 ![]() |
IPAC will begin issuing regularly scheduled avalanche forecasts beginning this Friday, December 14th. Forecasts will be posted twice a week, Tuesday and Fridays. You can get forecast information here, the IPAC facebook page, and our phone hotline at 208 765-7323. As usual, we are interested in hearing what you are seeing out there. Please help us make the forecast better by posting relevant info on our observations page. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-11 December 11, 2018 at 10:35 ![]() |
IPAC will begin issuing regularly scheduled avalanche forecasts beginning this Friday, December 14th. Forecasts will be posted twice a week, Tuesday and Fridays. You can get forecast information here, the IPAC facebook page, and our phone hotline at 208 765-7323. As usual, we are interested in hearing what you are seeing out there. Please help us make the forecast better by posting relevant info on our observations page. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-10 December 10, 2018 at 15:50 ![]() |
IPAC will begin issuing regularly scheduled avalanche forecasts beginning this Friday, December 14th. Forecasts will occur twice a week with days on Fridays and Tuesdays. You can get forecsat information here, the IPAC facebook page, and our phone hotline at 208 765-7323. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-12-10 December 10, 2018 at 15:50 ![]() |
IPAC will begin issuing regularly scheduled avalanche forecasts beginning this Friday, December 14th. Forecasts will occur twice a week with days on Fridays and Tuesdays. You can get forecsat information here, the IPAC facebook page, and our phone hotline at 208 765-7323. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-04-06 April 6, 2018 at 6:57 ![]() |
A strong weather system is currently moving through northern Idaho. Today, expect to see strong winds, snow and freezing temperatures. Yesterday's rain/snow mix saturated the top 6-8'' of the snowpack and made it avalanche prone. Temperatures overnight were cold enough to lock it back up though. I'd expect to see a firm refrozen surface today with places of wind deposited snow on top. I wouldn't expect to see any natural activity today but human triggered avalanches are possible. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-04-06 April 6, 2018 at 6:54 ![]() |
Continuing with our April snow showers theme through Friday, we recieved 2 to 7" of snow in the last 24 hours at the high elevations. This came in warm yesterday and had good bonding to the crusts underneath, but expect wind slabs at the ridgelines from the cooler snow that came in overnight. Cold overnight temperatures helped improve the stability due to wet slide potential, but watch for it to increase as daytime temperatures go above freezing again this weekend. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-04-06 April 6, 2018 at 4:54 ![]() |
Thursdays warm weather conditions will be pushed out of the area on Friday morning by a cold arctic front. This decline in temperatures will improve the stability of the upper snowpack as it locks the wet snow together on Friday. Moving into the weekend the weather forecast is predicting additional snowfall that is predicted to be wet and dense. These conditions will likely increase the avalanche hazard as dense storm slabs build through the weekend. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-04-03 April 3, 2018 at 6:52 ![]() |
April SNOW showers! Wind slabs continue to be the main concern at the higher elevation ridges. The new snow that we've been getting has been accompanied by transport speed winds. The small storms with winds trend will continue this week, creating layered wind slabs. Look for signs of windloading in the areas you are travelling. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-04-03 April 3, 2018 at 6:52 ![]() |
Put away your tennis rackets and mountain bikes. Winter is still here! The Selkirk and Cabinet mountains got a refresh of snow over the past 48 hours. Between 6-13'' fell above 4500'. Most areas are showing winds were out of the S-SW-W. Snow densities were low so expect to see snow on the move. Any leeward slope should be looked at with heightened concern. The snow surface under the new snow is frozen and firm, making a good slide surface. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-04-03 April 3, 2018 at 6:52 ![]() |
Put away your tennis rackets and mountain bikes. Winter is still here! The Selkirk and Cabinet mountains got a refresh of snow over the past 48 hours. Between 6-13'' fell above 4500'. Most areas are showing winds were out of the S-SW-W. Snow densities were low so expect to see snow on the move. Any leeward slope should be looked at with heightened concern. The snow surface under the new snow is frozen and firm, making a good slide surface. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-30 March 30, 2018 at 6:49 ![]() |
The mountains have been experiencing mild weather this week which has helped the snowpack settle and stabilize nicely. Watch near the ridgetops and ridgelines as they could be harboring isolated windslaps that could be triggered in steep terrain. Pay attention to daytime temperatures and solar radiation and choose your slopes to follow those temperatures. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-30 March 30, 2018 at 6:39 ![]() |
The mountains have not picked up an appreciable amount of new snow since last week and the mild weather has settled the pack nicely. Diurnal temperatures are creating a breakable crust at the surface on all aspects. The north aspect has some layers in last weeks snow but not too concerning. Watch windloaded areas, mainly N and E, in steep terrain where windslabs could fail. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-30 March 30, 2018 at 6:08 ![]() |
The highest elevations of the Kootenai are harboring isolated wind slabs that could be triggered in steep terrain. Pay attention to density changes in the surface snowpack and look for "lens shaped pillows" when travelling above treeline. At lower elevations the snowpack is generally stable, the exception will be during Saturday when the sun may cause small, "loose-wet" avalanches on southerly and westerly aspects. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-27 March 27, 2018 at 6:55 ![]() |
It continues to still be winter up in the mountains! We have another storm hitting with 4 - 8 inches through tomorrow. Accompanying that storm is sustained winds in the upper 20 mph range and gusts in the 40's. Expect to find windloading on the leeward ridgetops and cross loading in open areas. In the lower elevations where there is rain predicted with the storm, expect to see loose wet slides as the snowpack absorbs the rain. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-27 March 27, 2018 at 6:30 ![]() |
Just as we get going with Spring, winter comes roaring back! A strong, fast moving system's currently moving through the panhandle. the storm looks like it will drop another 4-6'' of snow (above 4000') accompanied by strong SW winds. It looks like the storm will push out tomorrow morning. The cold temperatures leading up to this storm have kept the snowpack cold and frozen. Be most aware of new snow slab formation. Hang in there, spring has to come sometime...right?! |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-27 March 27, 2018 at 5:36 ![]() |
Strong southwesterly winds and new snow will continue to build windslabs today. Expect to find windslabs on steep, leeward terrain at the upper elevations and in "cross-loaded" gullies where the wind has depostited the new snow. The most recent weather system is forecasted to bring rain to western Montana below 5,000' today, this will create perfect conditions for "loose-wet" avalanches through out the day Tuesday below treeline. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-23 March 23, 2018 at 6:59 ![]() |
Over the past 24 hours we've seen a big addition of weight to the snowpack in the form of rain. Rain, not only adds a lot of weight to the snowpack but it also breaks down the structure of the snowpack. Not a good thing for snow stability. The good news is...cold temperatures will soon start to freeze up the snowpack, making it stronger. Don't trust the snowpack yet, but it should trend in the right direction soon. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-23 March 23, 2018 at 6:50 ![]() |
The buried surface hoar layers from the past two weeks are starting to become active with the new, heavy loading we are getting. Watch the temperatures and keep an eye out for rollerballs; the potential for wet slides will increase throughout the day as the temperatures goes above freezing at lower elevations or the sun peaks through. Also watch for isolated pockets of windslabs that formed late last night and expect more to form throughout the weekend. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-23 March 23, 2018 at 5:56 ![]() |
Cold temperatures have locked the upper snowpack together following Thursdays' warm and wet weather. Generally stable snowpack conditions will exist on Friday with the potential to find isolated pockets of wind slab at upper elevations on leeward terrain. Expect windslabs and stormslabs to increase in size and sensitivity going into the weekend. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-23 March 23, 2018 at 5:52 ![]() |
Cold temperatures have locked the upper snowpack together following Thursdays' warm and wet weather. Generally stable snowpack conditions will exist on Friday with the potential to find isolated pockets of wind slab at upper elevations on leeward terrain. Expect windslabs and stormslabs to increase in size and sensitivity going into the weekend. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-20 March 20, 2018 at 6:38 ![]() |
Isolated windslabs formed Sunday night and yesterday morning: look for pillowy looking snow. Use caution in steep, unsupported terrain on the E-NE-N aspects where windslabs will still be lingering today. As the temperatures go up with the sunshine today, expect to see pinwheels, rollerballs, and loose wet slides. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-20 March 20, 2018 at 6:23 ![]() |
Sunday night, a quick moving storm left 9-11'' of snow above 4500'. The snow fell on a firm frozen surface, giving it a nice plane to slide on. As the new snow settles, it will become a stiffer slab and potentially produce larger avalanches. If temperatures rise in the next couple days (as they're forecasted to do), be aware of a increasing avalanche danger. Wet slab avalanches are likely. Spring snowpack is here! Get it while it's frozen! |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-20 March 20, 2018 at 5:32 ![]() |
Generally stable snowpack conditions exist in the mountains of the Kootenai. Use caution in steep, unsupported terrain on northeasterly aspects above 6,000' where isolated windslabs may persist. Expect to see small "loose-wet" avalanches form on slopes exposed to solar radiation as the weather forecast is calling for partly sunny conditions through Wednesday. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-16 March 16, 2018 at 6:29 ![]() |
Spring skiing and spring avalanche problems? Visit the SW -S- SE solar aspects. Heads up for roller balls, pinwheels, cornice falls, and natural wet slides as the day warms up to indicate the instability is rising. Winter skiing and winter avalanche problems? Visit the NE - N - NW aspects. Heads up for lingering windslabs and always be checking for the persistent weak layers. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-16 March 16, 2018 at 5:45 ![]() |
There is potential to trigger deep weak layers on north aspects above 6,000', this potential is more prevalant in the Purcell Range. There are also large and unpredictable cornices looming above northeast aspects that should be avoided as the recent warm temperatures have caused them to weaken over the past weak. Continue to pay attention to the weather as any rapid warming or sunshine will increase the likelihood of avalanches. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-16 March 16, 2018 at 5:40 ![]() |
Consolidated snowpack with firm sun and raincrust with 1 inch of heavy snow on the surface. Watch for cornice releases which have been the triggers for recent avalanches. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-13 March 13, 2018 at 6:52 ![]() |
Sunshine and warm temperatures will destabilize the upper portion of the snowpack throughout the day. Avoid areas where loose wet slides have the potential for pushing you into terrain traps. And pay attention above, cornices become weaker as the weather warms. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-13 March 13, 2018 at 6:21 ![]() |
The snowpack is going through a big change right now. Spring is here...at least for a couple days. The warm temperatures have decreased the stability in the upper portions of the snowpack. We'll hit the climax of this warm weather today (possibly 50 degrees at 5000'). Natural avalanches will be possible today and human triggered avalanches likely. Make wise travel choices today and stay away from solar aspects especially under rock outcroppings. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-13 March 13, 2018 at 5:16 ![]() |
Warm afternoon temperatures will cause the snowpack to weaken as Tuesday is forecast to be another warm and sunny day. Avoid areas where "loose-wet" slides have the potential to injure you by pushing you into trees and cliffs. Cornices and glide cracks are also starting to weaken, the only way to manage this problem is to avoid being underneath them as temperatures rise during the day. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-09 March 9, 2018 at 7:01 ![]() |
The storm that was called off ended up materializing with 6 -8" of heavy, dense snow and gusty SW winds. Watch for windslabs and storm slabs at the high elevations, and windslab development to continue throughout the day. Expect to see loose-wet avalanche activity in the lower elevations today and on the southern aspects as the sun hits them tomorrow. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-09 March 9, 2018 at 6:31 ![]() |
A winter storm has produced snow, rain and wind across the forecast area. 6-8'' of snow has fallen above 4800', but has been moved around with the wind. The winds were primarily out of the SW which means the E-N faces could have significant wind loading. Expect the storm slab at higher elevations to be reactive. Natural avalanches are possible and human triggered avalanches are likely on slopes steeper than 35 degrees. Make good decisions and travel safely. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-09 March 9, 2018 at 5:53 ![]() |
Strong winds and storm-snow have created slabs above 5,000', use caution on all steep slopes over 35.° Leeward terrain directly below ridgelines will be the primary features of concern at upper elevations through the weekend. Expect to see loose-wet avalanche activity at lower elevations and use caution in areas where these slow moving slides have the potential to push you into high consequence terrain such as gullies, trees or cliffs. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-06 March 6, 2018 at 6:57 ![]() |
Small storms, light winds, and mild temperatures have helped stabilized the upper snowpack this week. Caution is still needed in steep, high consequence terrain where loose dry avalanches are a possibility. The persistent weak layer is still showing its face in some locations, so it is important that you check your location by digging down. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-06 March 6, 2018 at 6:20 ![]() |
The Cabinets and Selkirk mountains have been getting light density snow over the past 48 hours. Scroll down to the avalanche problems to see what we're saying about the avalanche danger. IPAC sends it's condolences to the friends and families of the avalanche victims in Washington state. We're sad to report, 6 people have lost their lives in avalanches in Washington over the past week. Know what avalanche terrain is and practice safe travel techniques. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-06 March 6, 2018 at 5:29 ![]() |
Mild temperatures and a lack of wind have stabilized the upper snowpack. Use caution in steep, high consequence terrain on all aspects where loose-dry sloughing could cause a loss of control. Also keep in mind the potential to trigger deep weaknesses in the Purcell Range where the snowpack is thinner and potentially more sensitive to triggers. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-02 March 2, 2018 at 6:54 ![]() |
Stability issues from wind effected snow will be your main concern today. Mountains picked up a couple inches. Temperatures in the mountains remained below freezing and surface snow will be easily transported by the forecast winds today and tonight. New snow is expected and this will also add to stress on windloaded aspects. You'll find good traveling in most terrain but remain cautious of steep lee aspects with cornice formation and sparse vegetation to protect from triggering unstable wind slabs. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-02 March 2, 2018 at 6:53 ![]() |
A series of small storms has been tracking across the Silver Valley, depositing a few inches yesterday and last night. The smaller amounts in these storms accompanied by steady moderate temperatures have allowed these layers to bond, but have provided new fuel for windloading each day. Expect windslab formation at the ridgelines. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-02 March 2, 2018 at 4:42 ![]() |
The moderate temperatrures and lack of addtional loading has allowed the upper snowpack to strengthen significantly since last weekends storm. Triggering a windslab on leeward terrain at treeline and above is still a possibility. The facet layer above the February 4th rain crust is also healing but still harbors the potential to be triggered and should be given consideration in steep and open terrain above treeline. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-03-01 March 1, 2018 at 21:07 ![]() |
Stability issues from wind effected snow will be your main concern today. Mountains picked up a couple inches. Temperatures in the mountains remained below freezing and surface snow will be easily transported by the forecast winds today and tonight. New snow is expected and this will also add to stress on windloaded aspects. You'll find good traveling in most terrain but remain cautious of steep lee aspects with cornice formation and sparse vegetation to protect from triggering unstable wind slabs. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-27 February 27, 2018 at 8:16 ![]() |
New storm snow and strong Southwesterly winds have created sensitive slabs in steep terrain above 5,000' on all aspects. Use caution on steep slopes until this new snow has had time to settle and strengthen. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-27 February 27, 2018 at 7:00 ![]() |
The region recieved a substantial amount of new snow and high winds over the weekend, over 20 inches in most places. We saw extensive windslab development in the higher elevations. Yesterday was a brief respite from those winds, but overnight they picked up to transport speed again and will be accompanied by another shot of precipitation today. Expect sensitive windslabs on leeward aspects and allow time for the storm slabs to stabilize. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-27 February 27, 2018 at 6:52 ![]() |
The new snow across the Selkirk and Cabinet mountains have made for some powdery conditions! Be aware of soft slab potential near and above treeline. The light snow on the surface isn't a big concern right now, but we're looking at 15-20'' more by this weekend. As more snow falls, your internal 'red light' should be getting brighter. Expect the avalanche danger to increase over the next couple days. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-26 February 26, 2018 at 21:44 ![]() |
New storm snow and strong Southwesterly winds have created sensitive slabs in steep terrain above 5,000' on all aspects. Use caution on steep slopes until this new snow has had time to settle and strengthen. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-23 February 23, 2018 at 5:13 ![]() |
The wind slabs and weak layers under last weekends' storm snow have strengthened significantly this week. The potential still exists to trigger an avalanche in these variable wind deposits and stubborn weak layers. Use caution in steep terrain, particularly on Southwesterly aspects. Weather forecasts are predicting significant storm snow Saturday thru Sunday so expect avalanche danger to potentially rise with new snow and wind. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-22 February 22, 2018 at 18:54 ![]() |
Snowpack is consolidating with light powder on the surface where it is not wind affected. Assess upper elevation ridgetops and wind affected areas greater than 35 degrees as it is highly variable. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-22 February 22, 2018 at 18:54 ![]() |
Snowpack is consolidating with light powder on the surface where it is not wind affected. Assess upper elevation ridgetops and wind affected areas greater than 35 degrees as it is highly variable. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-20 February 20, 2018 at 6:57 ![]() |
The storm slabs and wind slabs from the President's Weekend storms are still working on stabilizing after such a big and rapid load. Most areas are resting on a layer of weak facets and the slick rain crust sliding surface. When headed into the backcountry, use careful snowpack evaluation, cautious route-finding and conservative decision making. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-20 February 20, 2018 at 6:53 ![]() |
After a week of good snow and strong winds we'll be hanging out in a cold high pressure for the next 24 hours. There was a lot of reverse loading above treeline and near ridges. Areas that are normally thought of as leeward slopes may have newly formed wind slabs on them. We're getting initial information about a snowmobile triggered avalanche in Echo bowl yesterday. No details yet... Stay safe out there! |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-20 February 20, 2018 at 5:09 ![]() |
Sensitive storm snow and wind slabs are resting on a layer of weak facets and a slick bed surface. Steep terrain (over 30°) should be avoided on all aspects and elevations until this new snow has had time to settle and strengthen. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-16 February 16, 2018 at 7:31 ![]() |
Currently 10 inches of recent storm snow sitting atop an ice crust. There is some wind affect and slight suncrust on top of the current surface. A series of storms will be rolling in with breezy conditions forming wind slabs and loading on Noreasterly aspects. Avalanche danger will be on the rise throughout the weekend with the brunt of the storm coming in Saturday. Red flags will be heavy precipitation and winds. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-16 February 16, 2018 at 6:59 ![]() |
The weekend is about to roll in with a bang weather wise. Going into Friday morning with an overall fairly stable snowpack, but the snow accumulation is going to ramp up throughout the day today and not stop until Sunday night. Storm totals could exceed 4 feet in areas and will be accompanied by strong winds. Expect the avalanche danger to increase throughout Saturday and Sunday. Significant snowfall and strong winds are two of the avalanche red flags. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-16 February 16, 2018 at 5:34 ![]() |
Expect avalanche danger to change rapidly going into the weekend with strong winds and heavy snowfall forecasted for Saturday and Sunday. This new snow will be falling on a multitude of weak layers that will take multiple days to settle and strengthen. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-13 February 13, 2018 at 6:59 ![]() |
The cold front that has swept through the region has done a good job of locking up the snowpack and increasing stability. The gusty winds we've been having created isolated windslabs on leeward aspects near our ridgelines. Heads up for the new storm coming in starting tonight, with the potential for over a foot of new snow to fall on a potentially slick bed surface. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-13 February 13, 2018 at 6:51 ![]() |
Cold temperatures and strong winds have driven some change in the snowpack. The cold temperatures over the past 72 hours have frozen the top of the snowpack. It's pretty locked up and won't change to much until we see warmer temperatures or more snow. Meanwhile...the strong winds have transported a fresh wind slab on to windward slopes. These newly formed wind slabs are sitting on older wind slabs that are capable of breaking off in the form of an avalanche. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-13 February 13, 2018 at 5:27 ![]() |
High winds have created isolated windslabs on leeward aspects near ridgelines and gullies. Use caution in high exposed terrain, particularly in the East Cabinets. Anticipate a significant increase in avalanche danger as storm snow is predicted to return on Wednesday. The current forecast is predicting up to a foot of new snow to fall, this new snow will likely be very sensitive through the week as it will be resting on a slick bed surface in many locations. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-09 February 9, 2018 at 7:03 ![]() |
With temperatures mostly above freezing since February 5th in the mountains most of our precipitation has been rain from 6300 feet down until last night. The pack has firmed up with about 3-4 inches of snow ontop of an melt freeze icecrust that is more prominent below 6000 feet. Extreme upper elevations have a more dense snow surface with lighter powder on top. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-09 February 9, 2018 at 7:03 ![]() |
With temperatures mostly above freezing since February 5th in the mountains most of our precipitation has been rain from 6300 feet down until last night. The pack has firmed up with about 3-4 inches of snow ontop of an melt freeze icecrust that is more prominent below 6000 feet. Extreme upper elevations have a more dense snow surface with lighter powder on top. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-09 February 9, 2018 at 6:58 ![]() |
The forecast is back to winter-like temperatures, which will help lock up all the moisture we've been seeing in the pack this week and increase the stability. Variable amounts of snow (1-5") fell across the forecast region last night, creating the potential for windslab formation. It is important as backcountry users that we evaluate the snow and terrain carefully to identify these areas. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-06 February 6, 2018 at 7:04 ![]() |
The recent precipitation pattern has injected a lot of heat into the snowpack (here) accompanied by average air temperatues being above freezing for the last four days has led to an unstable snowpack. Overnight loading of an additional 0.5 to 1" of snow water equivalent (3 to 7" of snow) has further destabilized the pack. It is important to pay attention to these spring like conditions and not become complacent because the snowpack is stable at lower elevations. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-06 February 6, 2018 at 6:50 ![]() |
Since our last advisory, the Selkirks and Cabinets have seen rain and wind. The rain has saturated the lower elevation snowpack while the wind at higher elevations has transported a fresh slab of snow onto leeward slopes. The rain line in most area was around 5000 ft. Be aware of the different snow conditions at different elevations and aspects. Be cautious on wind loaded slopes near ridges. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-06 February 6, 2018 at 4:47 ![]() |
Use caution on steep slopes above 6,000' in elevation as recent storm snow has yet to fully bond to the existing snowpack. A slide triggered on this storm snow also retains the possibility of steeping down to deeper weak layers at this elevation as well. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-02 February 2, 2018 at 6:22 ![]() |
It's Groundhog's Day and we are still caught in a time loop of the same three avalanche problems. Storm slabs, windslabs, and persistent slabs. Expect avalanche danger to increase as we get more snow loading during the day on Friday accompanied by gusty winds and then changing to higher density snow/rain on Friday night. Assess the terrain at each location by digging down into the snow to identify the layers at your location. Use cautious route-finding and conservative decision-making choices. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-02 February 2, 2018 at 5:17 ![]() |
At elevations above 6,000' there is the potential to trigger isolated wind slabs and thin storm slabs on all aspects with the incoming weather. These smaller avalanches also have the potential to step down to weaker layers in the snowpack at upper elevations and create larger slides. Below 6,000' the warm temperatures from Monday have bonded the upper snowpack under a thick, supportive crust layer. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-02-01 February 1, 2018 at 16:53 ![]() |
In that past 5-7 days we have received steady snowfall, witnessed above freezing temperatures, and endured some rain. This has created new surface layers and also helped to stabilize some problem layers last week. Eric revealed two ice crusts in the upper 18 inches that could present problems with enough new snow or windloaded snow. Normal caution is advised up high but use caution. Problem weak layers are more likely in northerly aspects on large, steep, exposed and open terrain. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-01-30 January 30, 2018 at 6:58 ![]() |
Our snowpack continues to gain strength from the past weekend storms, but strong winds came in overnight with new snowfall leading to windslab development. Todays weather will continue to lend to windslab development. Expect to find windslabs on the northeasterly aspects as well as storm slabs on all aspects above 5000'. Buried weak layers of variable distribution also warrant conservative terrain selection. Assess the snowpack in each place you plan to ride or slide. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-01-30 January 30, 2018 at 6:30 ![]() |
A new advisory and a new avalanche problem to talk about! Even though buried persistent layers and deep slab instabilities are still a concern, the bigger issue is the precipitation falling on the snowpack right now. Upper elevations are seeing light snow and strong winds while the lower elevations are seeing rain. Be aware of wind transported snow up high and rain on snow down low. Based on temperatures, it looks like the rain snow line is at 4,500-5,500 ft. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-01-30 January 30, 2018 at 5:21 ![]() |
Monday night came in with high winds and light snowfall at the upper elevations. Expect to find windslabs of variable thickness in the highest terrrain on northeasterly aspects and stormslabs on all aspects above 6,000.' The strength, thickness and reactivity of these slabs will vary greatly with the rapidly changing weather pattern we are currently experiencing. Approach steep terrain above 6,000' with caution. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-01-26 January 26, 2018 at 6:57 ![]() |
With the previous storm depositing a generous amount of snow and transport speed winds moving that snow around, there has been a lot of loading. We are forecasted to recieve even more snow with gusty winds, adding to this load. Avalanche danger will increase during the forecast period as the weekend storm systems roll through. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-01-26 January 26, 2018 at 5:52 ![]() |
Expect to find sensitive windslabs on leeward terrain (north and east aspects) directly below ridglines above 5,000' and in cross-loaded terrain that has been affected by southwesterly winds. These slabs have the potential to thicken and increase in sensitivity going into the weekend. In exposed alpine terrain above 6,000' new storm snow will also cause concern as the incoming weather brings more load to the snowpack. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-01-25 January 25, 2018 at 22:44 ![]() |
Recent natural, snowmobile and skier avalanches have been observed with the recent storm since Thursday in the forecast area. Some areas are more reactive than others but we have consistent persistant weak layers in the snowpack across the board. New storm snow has been reactive 1-2 feet deep with potential to trigger weak layers deeper in the pack. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-01-25 January 25, 2018 at 7:10 ![]() |
Over the past 24 hours the mountains have received a generous amount of snow. Westerly winds, stronger to the north, have been loading new snow. Temperatures also rose to near or above freezing creating a heavier layer of snow overlying a less dense layer. This is the primary weak layer of concern, heavy new snow over lighter snow, and was found to be very weak yesterday. Windloaded new snow could be a concern today. Travel in avalanche terrain not recommended. |
Advisory | |
Click here to see the full advisory for 2018-01-25 January 25, 2018 at 7:10 ![]() |
Over the past 24 hours the mountains have received a generous amount of snow. Westerly winds, stronger to the north, have been loading new snow. Temperatures also rose to near or above freezing creating a heavier layer of snow overlying a less dense layer. This is the primary weak layer of concern, heavy new snow over lighter snow, and was found to be very weak yesterday. Windloaded new snow could be a concern today. Travel in avalanche terrain not recommended. |
Advisory |