Backcountry avalanche warning issued Tuesday

The Flathead Avalanche Center in Hungry Horse has issued a backcountry avalanche warning for the Whitefish, Swan, and Flathead Ranges, as well as the Apgar Mountains, Lake McDonald Valley, and Marias Pass areas of Glacier National Park, in effect from 6 a.m. Tuesday to 5 a.m. Wednesday.  

Heavy rain, heavy snowfall, strong winds, and above-freezing temperatures have created very dangerous avalanche conditions. 

Large to very large natural avalanches are likely on mid- and upper-elevation slopes; they may involve wet snow or dense slabs of new and wind-drifted snow. These slides can run into low elevation terrain and valley bottoms, including terrain where it doesn't appear to be enough snow cover for avalanche hazards. 

Travel in and below avalanche terrain is not recommended. Avalanches may run long distances and can run into mature forests, valley floors, or flat terrain. 

Consult http://www.flatheadavalanche.org/ or www.avalanche.org for more detailed information. Similar avalanche danger may exist at locations outside the coverage area of this or any avalanche center.