Travelers Warned Of Avalanche Danger

Backcountry travelers should use extreme caution because of the avalanche danger in the higher elevations, the U.S. Forest Service said.

The snowpack is nearly 200 percent greater than normal throughout the Panhandle. Colder temperatures have created a hoar surface on the top of the snowpack above 4,000 feet.

Any new snow that falls on top of the hoar layer is extremely unstable, the Forest Service said.

Avalanche conditions below 4,000 feet are more moderate. Still, the Forest Service is recommending people not travel in avalanche terrain. Backcountry travelers should stay on designated trails.

The safest travel is on timbered trails, windward ridges or on more gentle slopes that do not adjoin steep terrain. Avoid large, open areas with slopes greater than 30 degrees.

Backcountry travelers also are encouraged to carry rescue equipment, including a shovel, avalanche probe or probe ski poles, a rescue beacon and a well-equipped first aid kit.

, DataTimes