Close
Missoula Avalanche

Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
February 4, 2022
Submitted:
February 5, 2022
Observer:
WCMAC - George D'Angelo
Zone or Region:
Central Bitterroots
Location:
Bass Cr.

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced

Snow Stability

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

Bottom Line

Warm temps and strong winds have elevated the hazard in some areas. Strong winds out of the W-SW have loaded lee slopes primarily at treeline and above. Lower and Mid elevations saw significant warming today and newer snow settling from light fluff to denser pow. Newer snow appears to be bonding well to the facets formed during our last cold spell at mid and upper elevations. The little bit of sun accentuated the surface warming of solar aspects, so expect a decent crust down low and zipper crust at mid-elevations. A significant warming trend is worth noting as we move into this weekend and next week.

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Mostly Cloudy
Temperature:
35.5*F
Wind:
Moderate , SW

Warming especially at lower and mid-elevations. Moderate to strong gusts near treeline with ample snow available for transport. Started snowing lightly in the evening. Continued warming means more weak snow at the surface so keep wet avalanche problems on your watchlist for next week.

Snowpack Observations

2 Pits.
1) @7400' on an E aspect. The height of the snow was 4.5-5ft. We performed an Extended Column Test(ECT) and got non-propagating results down a foot on faceted grains.

2) @7200' on a N aspect. The height of snow was 5-6ft. We also found non-propagating results here.

Avalanche Problems

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

Continued winds and snow over the coming days should keep windslabs at the forefront of your avalanche concerns.

Close