Professional Observation
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
January 24, 2022Submitted:
January 24, 2022Observer:
WCMAC - Trask BaughmanZone or Region:
Central BitterrootsLocation:
Downing MountainSigns of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
None ObservedCracking?
None ExperiencedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedSnow Stability
Stability Rating:
Very GoodConfidence in Rating:
HighStability Trend:
WorseningBottom Line
Today we toured in the Central Bitterroots from 5000 ft to 8200 ft above Downing Mountain Lodge. We found a variety of crusts, wind buff, and pockets of protected powder. The snowpack was very set up, and we saw no signs of instability. As we were leaving, the conditions were rapidly changing as the next storm started to roll in.
Observations made.
• Solar aspects below 6500 had a 2 inch (5cm) breakable crust
• A variety of wind buff and crusts in all exposed terrain
• Near-surface faceting found on all aspects
Media
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
Cloud Cover:
OvercastOccasional strong wind gusts out of the northwest.
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