Avalanche
Due to increased backcountry use, and current ‘very dangerous avalanche conditions’, Teton County Search and Rescue Foundation and Backcountry Zero have released a short video about the importance of safe and responsible backcountry use.
In the last week alone, there have been 11 human-triggered avalanches reported to the Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center.
Very dangerous avalanche conditions exist. New snow and strong southwesterly winds have added load to a snowpack that has buried weak layers. Additional snowfall and strong winds that are to veer to the northwest during the day will further stress these weaknesses. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended as natural avalanche activity is likely and human triggered avalanches are very likely. Avalanches could occur in the form of wind slabs at higher elevations or as persistent slabs at all elevations, involving older weak snow that lies close to the ground.
– Teton Forecast 1/5/21
Taking shortcuts in the backcountry, even those that seem small and insignificant can have disastrous consequences. With the pandemic elevating stress levels this winter, it’s more important than ever to Check Yourself, Check Your Friends.
Every time you enter the backcountry, please make sure that you:
-Check the daily avalanche forecast.
-Pack the essentials, and know how to use them.
-Do a proper beacon check.
-Exercise patience and show respect toward others and the environment.Let’s make this winter memorable for all the right reasons.
More info at BackcountryZero.com/winter.
