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Missoula Avalanche

Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
January 31, 2022
Submitted:
February 1, 2022
Observer:
WCMAC - Trask Baughman
Zone or Region:
Missions
Location:
Southern Missions, Mount Henry

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
Isolated
Collapsing? 
None Experienced

Snow Stability

Stability Rating: 
Fair
Confidence in Rating: 
High
Stability Trend: 
Worsening

Bottom Line

Today we rode sleds into the southern Missions and toured on skis along Mount Henry. We found widespread crust-facet compo on all aspects, 1 foot down (30cm). We found isolated cracking on ridge tops and propagation in extended column tests in wind-loaded zones.
We intentionally triggered an avalanche on an east-facing slope at 6900ft on a steep rollover. The slope angle was 37° at the steepest and an average of 34°. The size caught us off guard. Measuring on a topographical map, we got the approximate size of the avalanche, 200 feet wide, running 250-300ft downhill. (HS-AS-C-R2-D2)

Media

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Overcast
Wind:
Strong , NW

Avalanche Observations

 #  Date Location Size Type Bed Sfc Depth Trigger Comments Photo
1 Mount Henry
E 6900
D2 WS O-Old Snow 1 foot (30cm) AS-Skier
c-Intentional
None
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