Close
Missoula Avalanche

Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
February 2, 2022
Submitted:
February 2, 2022
Observer:
WCMAC - Jeff Carty
Zone or Region:
Rattlesnake
Location:
Tele meadows area

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
Isolated
Collapsing? 
None Experienced
Instabilities are isolated to wind loaded snow. The new snow lacks the cohesion to form slabs otherwise. Sluffs are running long and fast.

Snow Stability

Stability Rating: 
Good
Confidence in Rating: 
High
Stability Trend: 
Steady

Bottom Line

Hazard in the area we toured was moderate at ridgeline due to wind slab, and low at middle and lower elevations. Sluff management may be required in steep terrain.

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Overcast
Temperature:
0ºf (-17ºc)
Wind:
Moderate , N

It was cold up there today. North winds were loading south aspects.

Snowpack Observations

No buried surface hoar found, but buried near surface facets were widespread. Instabilities are isolated to the upped 6" except where drifted deeper by wind. The snowpack below the new snow remains stable.

Close