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Missoula Avalanche

Public Observation

Observation Details

Observation Date:
December 22, 2021
Submitted:
December 22, 2021
Zone or Region:
Activity:
Skiing/Snowboarding
Location:
Gash Knob

Signs of Unstable Snow

None reported

Observations

Travel was from the main trailhead to just shy of the Gash Knob summit. We decided not to summit Gash Knob due to marginal skiing on the wind-affected snow. We skied fairly consistent dense powder down South Bowl.
Temps were rather mild today, helping consolidate the new snow from the past week or so. Winds were moderate/strong out of the NW, creating stubborn wind slabs and marginal skiing on wind-affected terrain. I kicked on a few wind-loaded pillows and did not experience any cracking or collapsing. I dug a few hand pits in shallow north-facing terrain and did not find any facets.

Media

Wind scoured snow on the ridge
Old raised skin track from wind scouring.

Advanced Observations

Observed Avalanche Problem #1: 
Wind Slab
Comments: 
Stubborn wind slabs above 6000'. It was possible to trigger small wind slabs today on slopes over 35 degrees.
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