UPDATE:
Tuesday, Nov 3, 6am: 7-10" so far bringing snowdepth to 10-14" in the Bridger, Gallatin and Madison ranges and 20" in Cooke City. Check out our Daily Weather Log for more info. We will update this page tomorrow.
Monday, Nov 2: Snowfall is expected in the next 48 hours throughout southwest Montana. We will update this information on Nov 4, Wednesday morning.
This is Eric Knoff with early season snowpack information issued Tuesday, October 27. Today’s information is sponsored by the Friends of the Avalanche Center. This information will be updated as conditions change.
THANK YOU
The GNFAC would like to extend a big thanks to all those who attended the 17th annual Powder Blast this past Friday. The event was a huge success providing great silent auction items, music, drinks and food to a sellout crowd. All the proceeds from this year’s Powder Blast will be used to support the Friends of the Avalanche Center in their goal of promoting avalanche awareness and education throughout southwest Montana.
Driving into Bozeman this morning it’s clear that snow levels dropped to around 6,000 ft. overnight. Although local Snotel sites aren’t showing much in the way of accumulation, I’m guessing a few inches of dense snow fell at higher elevations. In the mountains around Cooke City, Fisher Creek Snotel site is reporting three inches of accumulated snow. I wouldn’t be surprised if 4-6 inches fell at higher elevations in this area. Today, mountain snow showers will linger through the morning, but no real accumulation is expected. A weak ridge of high pressure begins to build this afternoon producing warmer and drier conditions for Wednesday. Another weak storm system could impact the area later in the week.
While it has been snowing periodically for the past few weeks, there still isn’t enough snow to get real excited about breaking out the boards. For a few die hards, there may be enough snow on some high-wind drifted chute to make a turn or two, but I wouldn’t count on it.
If you do decide to take the boards for a walk, make sure to practice good procedures. This means carrying the proper rescue gear - a shovel, beacon and probe, and always practice safe travel protocol. Developing good habits early in the season is a smart way to ensure you have a safe winter in the backcountry.
If you’re not out searching for a few scratchy turns, it’s never too early to get your gear prepared. See the latest video on rescue gear preparation. Also, consider attending an upcoming avalanche awareness class. We’re adding new classes daily, so check our Education Calendar.