Avalanche danger remains high in Montana

(Helena, MT) - Montana State Parks (stateparks.mt.gov) is reminding the public to take special precautions when recreating outdoors this Spring to remain safe from avalanche danger.

With Spring conditions and record snowfalls in many areas throughout Montana, it is shaping up to be a very hazardous time for recreationists statewide.  The warmer daytime temperatures of March, combined with recent heavy snowfalls that occurred during a time of relatively low temperatures has increased the need for heightened avalanche awareness in the coming weeks.

The tragic avalanche that occurred on the edge of Missoula during the last week of February demonstrates that an avalanche can occur virtually anywhere in Montana when the topography and conditions are right.

All recreationists,- including those snowmobiling, skiing, or snowshoeing,- are urged to exercise extreme caution for their outdoor activities this Spring.  Please maintain an added awareness of avalanche potential during the next few weeks and remember to check current conditions.

Current avalanche conditions and reports for Montana are available at:

Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center    http://www.mtavalanche.com/

Flathead Avalanche Center                            http://flatheadavalanche.org/

West Central Avalanche Center                     http://www.missoulaavalanche.org/

Montana State Parks administers the Montana Snowmobile Program which provides grant funding to support snowmobile trail grooming and education so enthusiasts can ride safely in Montana.   

Montana State Parks administers the Recreational Trails Program which provides federal funds to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities in Montana.

For more public safety information related to snowmobiling and /or trails visit: stateparks.mt.gov