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Missoula Avalanche

Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
March 11, 2022 - March 11, 2022
Submitted:
March 11, 2022
Observer:
WCMAC - Ryan Sorenson
Zone or Region:
Rattlesnake
Location:
Rattlesnake, Snowbowl backcountry

Signs of Unstable Snow

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

Snow Stability

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

Bottom Line

We toured off Point Six from Snowbowl down the south and west aspects of Jenny Bowl and north-facing Burgandy Bowl. North and west aspects host wind-packed and scoured snow surfaces in open terrain and ridgelines. Protected areas have up to 6 inches (20 cm) of low-density snow over icy crusts. The rain crust disappears above approximately 7,700 feet in this zone. We found up to 30 inches (75 cm) of snow above the crusts in the protected south-facing wind-loaded trees of Jenny Bowl at 7,600 feet. We observed some cracking in the top 6 inches on test drifts on east slopes that were stubborn to release. Large cornices linger on east-facing ridgelines. Our primary concern is avalanches running on the rain crust as temperatures warm up and we receive more snow.

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Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Overcast
Temperature:
23°F
Wind:
Moderate , W

There were light snow showers between 10 and 11 am accompanied by moderate west winds and blowing snow. This dissipated around noon, and winds calmed to light. Another snow shower moved overhead around 3 pm with light westerly winds and snowfall rates in the 1 cm per hour range (S1).

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