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Missoula Avalanche

Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
December 31, 2021
Submitted:
December 31, 2021
Observer:
WCMAC - Trask Baughman
Zone or Region:
Rattlesnake
Location:
Snowbowl Backcountry

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced
Sluffing

Snow Stability

Stability Rating: 
Good
Confidence in Rating: 
Moderate
Stability Trend: 
Improving

Bottom Line

Today we toured up towards point six. We found instabilities in the top 5 inches (12cm) of snow. This layer was easily sluffing off and could easily catch you off guard in steep terrain. We stuck to slopes free of previous wind loading and terrain traps.
Other observations:
• Areas with less than 40 inches (1 meter) of snowpack continue to weaken with cold temps. We identified defined .5mm facets around a foot down (35cm)
• Pockets of Surface hoar found. This could become a layer of concern if buried.
• We dug several pits in various locations and had no propagation in extended columns test

Media

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Clear
Wind:
Light , SW

Avalanche Problems

Problem Location Distribution Sensitivity Size Comments
Dry Loose
Isolated
Specific
Widespread
Unreactive
Stubborn
Reactive
Touchy
D1
D1.5
D2
D2.5
D3
D3.5
D4
D4.5
D5
Persistent Slab
Isolated
Specific
Widespread
Unreactive
Stubborn
Reactive
Touchy
D1
D1.5
D2
D2.5
D3
D3.5
D4
D4.5
D5
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