The National Weather Service in Flathead County reports an Avalanche Watch has been issued by the Flathead Avalanche Center in Hungry Horse. This watch is effective from 8:00 AM March 25 to 8:00 AM March 26, 2025.
Rising temperatures and direct sunlight may create very dangerous avalanche conditions on Wednesday. The affected areas include the mid and upper elevations of the Whitefish and Swan Ranges, all elevations of the Flathead Range, and portions of Glacier National Park, specifically around Lake McDonald and near Marias Pass.
Unseasonably warm temperatures combined with direct sun may destabilize recent and drifted snow, leading to widespread wet snow avalanches and large to very large slab avalanches that may release deeper in the snowpack or near the ground. Debris from these avalanches could command large volumes of snow and travel surprising distances, including reaching valley floors.
Precautions are advised as very dangerous avalanche conditions may develop. It is recommended to delay backcountry travel or to plan routes that minimize time in and below steep start zones. For more detailed information, consult Flathead Avalanche Center or Avalanche.org.
Similar avalanche danger may exist in areas outside the coverage zone of this alert.
| Alert Type | Avalanche Watch |
|---|---|
| Issued By | Flathead Avalanche Center |
| Effective From | March 25, 2025, 8:00 AM |
| Effective To | March 26, 2025, 8:00 AM |
| Impact | Dangerous avalanche conditions are possible. |
| Recommended Actions | Delay backcountry travel; minimize time in steep areas. |