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Missoula Avalanche

Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
February 16, 2022 - February 16, 2022
Submitted:
February 16, 2022
Observer:
WCMAC - Ryan Sorenson
Zone or Region:
Rattlesnake
Location:
Rattlesnake, Snowbowl backcountry, Point Six

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
Isolated
Collapsing? 
None Experienced
Soft storm slabs were easily triggered on terrain steeper than 35 degrees. Generally, they lacked the cohesion to cause any major concern.

Snow Stability

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

Bottom Line

I toured in the Snowbowl backcountry today. Winds were moderate out of the northwest early in the morning but calmed after approximately 10 am. We found reactive storm slabs breaking in the top 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm) of fresh snow on slopes steeper than 35 degrees. These would turn to sluff after a few feet of sliding. There has been 6 to 10 inches (15-25 cm) of fresh snow since Monday night (2/14).

Media

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Mostly Cloudy
Temperature:
23°F
Wind:
Light , NW

In the morning, a partially overcast sky gave way to fog and low visibility in the afternoon. Snow bands would move in and out lightly snowing.

Avalanche Observations

 #  Date Location Size Type Bed Sfc Depth Trigger Comments Photo
1 Today Top of Point Six, 7,850 Feet
E 7,850
D1 SS S-New Snow 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm) AS-Skier
c-Intentional
Intentional cornice fall triggered soft wind slab.

Snowpack Observations

6 to 10 inches of fresh snow lays over various crusts, rounded snow, and rounding facets.

Avalanche Problems

Problem Location Distribution Sensitivity Size Comments
Storm Slab
Isolated
Specific
Widespread
Unreactive
Stubborn
Reactive
Touchy
D1
D1.5
D2
D2.5
D3
D3.5
D4
D4.5
D5
Layer Depth/Date: 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm)
New snow
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