Avalanche danger rated 'high' near Glacier

Heavy snowfall, rain and strong wind gusts have elevated avalanche danger in the mountains near Whitefish.

The avalanche danger is rated high on all slopes in the Flathead Range and in portions of Glacier National Park.

“Very dangerous avalanche conditions exist,” the Flathead Avalanche Center warned Wednesday afternoon. “Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended and avalanche runout zones should be avoided.”

Natural avalanche activity was observed in John F. Stevens Canyon along the southern edge of Glacier Park, the avalanche center reports.

About 4 inches of heavy and wet snow fell Wednesday morning at Flattop Mountain in Glacier Park, adding to the 13 inches of new snow in the past two days.

Wind gusts were recorded at 60 miles per hour, while temperatures climbed to 32.

Another weather system will impact the area Thursday with heavy mountain snow predicted.

The avalanche center will update their advisory Thursday morning. Visit online at www.flatheadavalanche.org.