Professional Observation
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
February 14, 2022 - February 14, 2022Submitted:
February 14, 2022Observer:
WCMAC - Ryan SorensonZone or Region:
Central BitterrootsLocation:
Elk Meadows, Skookum Lake, Rocky PointSigns of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
None ObservedCracking?
None ExperiencedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedSnow Stability
Stability Rating:
GoodConfidence in Rating:
HighStability Trend:
SteadyBottom Line
We rode into the Elk Meadows area today to look for surface hoar and check on surface conditions before the next storm. In general, the surface melt-freeze crusts had everything locked up.
• We found buried surface hoar on a west aspect near Rocky Point at 6,800 feet and near Skookum Lake on a north aspect at 7,000 feet. However, it is not propagating in extended column tests.
• We found fresh surface hoar developing on protected north aspects near Skookum Lake.
• Air temperatures were in the mid 30's °F throughout the day. Snow surfaces were moist by noon.
• Winds were light out of the southwest, with occasional moderate gusts.
• It's thin and icy coverage below 5000 feet. The road had turned to a sheet of ice in many spots at lower elevations.
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