Avalanche forecasters caution recreational users about winter storms

TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — As winter weather hits our state, recreational users can be in danger of the aftereffects of a winter storm like the one we experienced.

According to the Sawtooth Avalanche Center, the chances of natural and human-triggered avalanches increased after Thursday’s winter storm.

Zach Peterson, an avalanche forecaster, listed gear you should always bring when facing these hazardous conditions.

“When you’re traveling in the backcountry, there are three things that you always have to bring with you: an avalanche beacon, a shovel, and a probe,” Peterson said. “A beacon is to be used to find another avalanche beacon. You have to make sure that all of your partners are wearing them, and they’re all on. So, use that to find another beacon.”

Peterson explained that a beacon is used to find another partner’s avalanche beacon in case of an emergency.

“The avalanche probe is basically just a really long piece of carbon or aluminum. And that’s used to find the actual person. And then the shovel will be used to dig out whoever needs to be dug out.”

Peterson advised you should have a plan in place, including learning more about the conditions regarding avalanches and overall weather.

“Choose to avoid walking on or below steep slopes.”

According to the Sawtooth Avalanche Center, slopes up to 30 degrees are steep and should also be avoided when skiing.

Peterson said that acting fast is the best way of survival when facing one of these scenarios.

“Really, the best chance of someone being rescued is going to be by their partners.”

As for people who are winter camping, some days are more dangerous than others.

“You’re in a big cycle of snow and wind, white out conditions and an unfamiliar area it might be better to postpone your trip,” Peterson said.

According to John Kurtz, the Outdoor Recreation Planner for the BLM Idaho, camping can also bring wildlife to your area.

“Look up on those hillsides and if you see wildlife, deer or elk on the hillside, or even anywhere close is to avoid those areas or view the wildlife from a distance,” Kurtz said.

Kurtz explained the signs wildlife displays when you may be too close.

“If the elk, or deer, start to stand up or move around. You’re too close, you need to back off and go find someplace else to go recreate,” Kurtz said.

Kurtz said that you should move farther away if you can still see the wildlife.

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