Significant Snowfall Increases Avalanche Danger in Bighorns

Recent heavy snowfall in the Bighorn Mountains has heightened the risk of avalanches, posing a serious threat to those enjoying winter activities. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has the details.

Although there is not an official avalanche center that provides a “danger” scale for the Bighorn Mountains, nearby locations with avalanche centers such as Bridger-Teton National Forest and Gallatin National Forest have rated the avalanche danger as high in their areas.

On Sunday, Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center reported that 41-year-old David Rice of Alpine died in a massive avalanche in Prater Canyon outside of Star Valley Ranch, Wyoming.  Sheridan County Emergency Management issued a media release emphasizing the need for heightened awareness and extreme caution when engaging in outdoor recreational activities in the region. As a precautionary measure, it is strongly advised to avoid enjoying winter activities alone. Always inform someone about your plans, including your location and expected time of return. Additionally, having essential tools such as a probe, beacon, and shovel is crucial for safety when venturing into mountainous snow-covered terrain. If you need help, do not wait to call 911.

Avalanche information, education, and tools to enhance safety can be accessed at www.avalanche.org. Staying informed and prepared is key to ensuring a safer winter experience in the Big Horn Mountains.
For further information, please contact:
Sheridan County Emergency Management, Jesse Ludikhuize, 307-675-2569, scema@sheridancountywy.gov
Important Safety Tips:
Avoid winter recreational activities alone.
Inform someone about your plans, including your location and expected time of return.
Carry essential tools such as a probe, beacon, and shovel.
Stay informed about avalanche conditions through reliable sources.
Additional Resources:
https://hls.wyo.gov/307
https://www.ready.gov