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Missoula Avalanche

Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
January 21, 2022
Submitted:
January 21, 2022
Observer:
WCMAC - Ryan Sorenson
Zone or Region:
Central Bitterroots
Location:
LoLo Pass, Mt. Fuji

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
Isolated
Collapsing? 
Isolated
Buried surface hoar easily propagated in ECT.

Bottom Line

We set out to look for buried surface hoar and found two distinct layers on a northeast aspect near the top of Mount Fuji. It showed easy and sudden propagation in extended column tests. The exact extent to which it lingers needs further investigation. We did not find it in the few holes we dug below 5,800 feet. We chose to travel one at a time and avoid steep slopes with rollovers or associated terrain traps.

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Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Overcast
Temperature:
28°F
Wind:
Light , W

Snow bands continued to bring light snowfall. It was snowing dendrites (1 to 2 mm) and graupel on and off. Winds were calm, with a light westerly breeze observed on the ridge top.

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