FAC staff give a brief overview of the Persistent Slab problem as of 1-18-26. Follow along at https://t.co/RXISQ3Bz0N

While the odds of a rider triggering a large avalanche on a buried weak layer are decreasing, that hazard remains our primary concern. Choosing slopes with a strong, supportable surface crust will minimize your risk. Visit flatheadavalanche for more details.

It remains possible to trigger a dangerous avalanche breaking 1-3 feet deep. Safer riding conditions exist on low-angle, shaded slopes above about 6000 feet. With continued sunshine in the forecast, fresh roller balls and pinwheels are your cue to move to shadier terrain.

Liquid water is making its way through the snowpack. Expect large wet snow avalanches today. Shaded slopes will provide safer and better riding conditions. Keep in mind that we've received reports of human-triggered avalanches failing 1 to 2 feet deep on a persistent weak layer.

It is possible to trigger a large avalanche failing 1 to 3 feet deep. Although the weak structure exists on all aspects above 5000 feet, west-south-east aspects are proving to be the most dangerous.

Yet another human-triggered avalanche on a buried weak layer reminds us that persistent slabs should be shaping our travel plans. Meanwhile, if the sun shows up, expect wet loose avalanches. Safe and excellent riding conditions can be found on low-angle, shaded slopes.

Triggering a large avalanche on a buried weak layer remains a concern. If more sunshine arrives than forecast, a wet avalanche problem will develop. Choose low-angle slopes sheltered from the sun and wind. Get more details at https://t.co/RXISQ3Bz0N

Your safest option for quality weekend riding will be found on low-angle slopes sheltered from the wind. Today, FAC will visit the site of an avalanche that occurred Friday. https://t.co/RXISQ3Bz0N. 📷 1 - Recent avalanche near WMR. 📷 2 - Monster facets, Stryker Ridge

Dangerous avalanche conditions are developing as impressive winds transport fresh snow. The danger is most widespread in the Flathead Range where up to 16" of snow fell. Enjoy today's refresh on sheltered low-angle slopes. Get the full forecast at flatheadavalanche

It's snowing and blowing, so you can trigger an avalanche where winds have drifted snow into fresh slabs. Blowing snow signals active loading, while shooting cracks clearly indicate unstable snow. If you observe either, give a wide margin to nearby steep slopes.

FAC staff review a recent natural avalanche on Nyack Mountain in the Flathead Range.

Friday's weak storm left thin slabs near high elevation ridgelines and summits. In many locations these features buried a widespread surface hoar layer. Today's balmy weather may lead to wet snow issues. Find out more at https://t.co/RXISQ3Bz0N 📸 1 - Burket Kniveton

The avalanche danger will start at LOW today and may rise to MODERATE due to the possibility of wet loose avalanches. Rollerballs and pinwheels will indicate when to move to shaded slopes.

Slabs of wind-drifted snow remain the primary avalanche concern. These will be more common in the alpine or along ridge crests. Keep an eye out for cracking around your boards or machine. Good and safer riding is found on slopes sheltered from the wind.

Shifting winds have left slabs of drifted snow on various slopes. Seek out higher-quality conditions in sheltered terrain, keeping in mind that triggering a loose slide is possible on steep slopes. More details at https://t.co/RXISQ3Bz0N 📸 0700 temps today

FAC staff discuss how the recent snow and wind have contributed to an increase in the avalanche hazard. Get more details at https://t.co/RXISQ3Bz0N

Large avalanches are likely today in wind-drifted snow on steep slopes near ridgelines, saddles, and gullies. There is safer riding and excellent conditions to be had in sheltered terrain outside of the wind zone.

Things are looking up as rain turns to snow at all elevations. The riding is improving but the avalanche danger increases today, tonight, and into tomorrow as fresh slabs of new and wind-blown snow develop. More details at https://t.co/RXISQ3Bz0N

Snowfall is back in the forecast! Danger will rise this afternoon and overnight as new snow and wind form sensitive drifts on wind-exposed slopes. Move to less steep slopes if the snow cracks around your feet or machine. Full forecast at https://t.co/RXISQ3Bz0N

Thankfully, Santa brought cooling temperatures. Sadly, the soft snow from earlier this week is now in debris piles or crusted over. Keep an eye for lingering wet loose avalanches in elevations where you don't experience a surface crust.