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Missoula Avalanche

Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
March 23, 2022
Submitted:
March 23, 2022
Observer:
WCMAC - Ryan Sorenson
Zone or Region:
Missions
Location:
Southern Missions

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced
It was easy to trigger small wet slides on steep rollovers on south aspects below 7,000 feet.

Snow Stability

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

Bottom Line

Snow surfaces were saturated approximately a foot (30 cm) deep at 6,800 feet at noon on a southeast aspect in the southern Mission today. Even northerly aspects were sticky and beginning to saturate. Large rollerballs were forming on the south and east aspects below 7,000 feet. It was easy to trigger wet avalanches that released underfoot that quickly entrained snow as they slid. There are 2 to 2.5 feet (60 to 75 cm) of snow in the flats at 4,300 feet. The south aspect we traveled had patchy coverage to 5,200 feet.

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Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Mostly Sunny
Temperature:
48°F
Wind:
Calm , SE

High wispy clouds did little to block the sun and the blue sky cleared after 11 am.

Avalanche Problems

Problem Location Distribution Sensitivity Size Comments
Wet Loose
Isolated
Specific
Widespread
Unreactive
Stubborn
Reactive
Touchy
D1
D1.5
D2
D2.5
D3
D3.5
D4
D4.5
D5
Saturated snow was easily triggered on southerly aspects below 7,000 feet
None Specified
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