Warnings issued for driving conditions, backcountry avalanche hazards
EBS STAFF
Big Sky is under a Winter Weather Advisory which started at 5 a.m. this morning, Dec. 26, and is expected to continue until 11 p.m. tomorrow night, Dec. 27. A total of 6 to 12 inches are predicted to fall in mountain elevations, and 3 to 6 inches in higher valleys and mountain passes.
The National Weather Service predicts wind gusts up to 40 mph occasionally. NWS recommends slowing down on roads and using caution while traveling.
For backcountry powder-seekers, keep in mind that snowy and windy conditions will lead to “HIGH” avalanche danger by tomorrow in the southern Madison and Gallatin ranges. The Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center recommended the following precautionary measures:
“Avalanche conditions will become very dangerous, and travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended. Avoid traveling on or under slopes steeper than 30 degrees. As the storm progresses, avalanches may be triggered from flat terrain underneath steeper slopes.”
Avalanche education and preparedness can save lives when recreating in the backcountry.
On a lighter note, in-bounds skiers at Big Sky Resort can enjoy the post-Christmas powder throughout the remainder of the week. Five inches fell on Christmas Day, with more falling throughout today, and daily accumulations expected until the new year.
