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Missoula Avalanche

Public Observation

Observation Details

Observation Date:
March 12, 2022
Submitted:
March 12, 2022
Zone or Region:
Activity:
Snowmobiling/Snowbiking
Location:
Bass Creek

Observed Avalanches

Did you observe any avalanches? 
Yes
Avalanche Type:
Wet Loose
Size:
Size 2: Could bury, injure, or kill a person
Elevation:
6000 feet
Aspect:
S
Comments:
Multiple avalanche issues were present deep in Bass Creek on 3/12/22. Wet and slab.

Photo:

Signs of Unstable Snow

Did you see shooting cracks? 
No
Did you experience collapsing or whumpfing? 
Yes, Isolated

Observations

A ECT was preformed on a NW facing (30 degree) slope at 6800'. The column fully propagated on ECTP23, a subsequent test failed on ECTP24. The problematic weak layer comprises of a 4F layer resting on a rather granular ice crust 40cm down. Various N facing slopes in the area are displaying older crowns and debris (roughly a week old?).

Later in the afternoon, S facing aspects (around 5900') displayed roller balls and point releases. Woomfing was heard on low angle terrain as well, although this only happened in one area.

Ultimately, we decided to play it safe and head back.

Media

Advanced Observations

Observed Avalanche Problem #1: 
Wet Loose
Comments: 
S, 5900', D1-2, likely to trigger, 3/12
Observed Avalanche Problem #2: 
Persistent Slab
Comments: 
NW, 5900', D2+, full planar propagation, could be hard to trigger but chance is there, 40cm down, 3/12
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