An avalanche warning has been issued for the southern Mission, southern Swan, Rattlesnake, and southern and central Bitterroot mountains.
The West Central Montana Avalanche Center reports that the avalanche danger for the west central Montana backcountry is listed at "high" and that human triggered avalanches are certain.
The avalanche hazard is increasing with continued snowfall, according to the Center's Jeff Carty. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended.
Carty cautions in an advisory issued Wednesday morning that avalanches may run long distances and avoid runout zones.
The avalanche warning -- which expires at midnight -- does not apply to operating ski areas which are the responsibility of the U.S. Forest Service.
Click here to view the latest advisory from the West Central Montana Avalanche Center.
