Moderate Slide Risk in Wyoming and Idaho Backcountry

Backcountry users in northwestern Wyoming and eastern Idaho are being warned to be careful following two avalanche deaths.

The Bridger-Teton National Forest Avalanche Center rated the avalanche danger as moderate above 7,500 feet Friday. It says clear skies and warm temperatures could lead to some afternoon slides in sunny areas.

On Thursday, a 29-year-old Jackson snowboarder was buried in a slide about a half-mile outside the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. In Idaho, a 39-year-old snowmobiler also died when a slope he was climbing broke loose in the Upper Palisade Lake drainage.

The Jackson Hole Daily reports that snowboarder Michael Kazanjy was buried under 4 to 6 feet of snow.

The ski resort allows skiers and snowboarders access to the backcountry beyond its gates but signs warn them of the risks.