Avalanche warning in effect for mountains near Island Park, West Yellowstone

ISLAND PARK — An avalanche warning has been issued for mountains near Island Park, West Yellowstone and Cooke City, Montana.

“The avalanche danger is high in the backcountry due to significant amounts of snow, wind and rain in the mountains,” the warning from the Bridger Teton Avalanche Center says. “Recent heavy snow combined with strong southwest wind in higher elevations and rain in lower elevations will create widespread areas of unstable snow.”

The warning is in effect for mountains in eastern Idaho, including the Snake River Range, Elk Mountains and Big Holes. Western Wyoming mountains, including the Snake River, Salt River, Wyoming, Gros Ventre, Togwotee, and Teton Ranges, are also part of the warning.

Human-triggered and natural avalanches large enough to bury people are likely to occur on most aspects and elevations in the backcountry, the warning says. Rain on snow will create large wet avalanches in the valleys.

The warning remains in effect until 6:30 a.m. Tuesday. You can find more information here and the latest weather forecast here.