Avalanche Scare Highlights Risk as Montana Braces for Big Winter

Montana skiers may be in for an epic winter. If the forecasts hold up, we are expecting to see La Nina weather patterns. For Montana, that normally means we will see below-normal temperatures and above-normal precipitation, which can mean a memorable ski season. 

What La Niña Means for Montana Skiers

Both the Old Farmer’s Almanac and NOAA’s models seem to be pointing in that direction for this winter. Most of Montana’s ski areas open in December, so the countdown is on for opening day. 

READ MORE: Montana’s Coldest December on Record: Could This Year Join the List?

Avalanche Details from the Bridgers Incident

One skier recently had a scary situation happen in the Bridgers. According to MTAvalanche.com, while skiing the Pomp Twins Couloir an avalanche started and carried the skier with it about 250 feet down the mountain. The skier was able to deploy their airbag and was able to stay on top of the slide. Eventually, the skier was able to dig their way out of the snow, with no injuries reported. 

More skiers these days have cameras and can catch the action, and this instance is no different.  

Why Backcountry Gear Matters More Than Ever

Two videos of the incident have been posted to the MTAvalanche YouTube channel. 

The more people ski and snowboard in remote areas of Montana, the more important it is to have safety equipment like airbags, probes, and transponders.  

This incident is a reminder of how quickly skiing conditions can become dangerous.  Please be safe out there this season.