Pro Field Report

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
January 7, 2021 - January 7, 2021
Submitted:
January 7, 2021
Observer:
SAC - O'Connor, McClurg
Zone or Region:
Galena Summit and Eastern Mtns
Location:
Boulder Ck (S, SW, W, NW, N --- 6600-8600')

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
Isolated
Collapsing? 
Widespread
5-10m. roadside to top elevation

Snow Stability

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

Bottom Line

Skier triggered in avalanche terrain likely. (un)healthy set up of well-established slab above weak layer seen here as in other regional obs. not much to think about. Hard to outsmart this structure. I expect my mindset will stay unchanged from the moment I leave the car till I return for awhile. Time to accept that this looks to be with us for quite some time. That being said smiles were shared and good skiing was had. pretty day.

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Partly Cloudy
Temperature:
est high 20's
Wind:
Light
New/Recent Snowfall:
2-4cm.

BKN --> CLR by late pm. N, N2 winds intermittent but enough to fill in skin track by return to Hwy 75 with 2.5 hour tour

Snowpack Observations

Above Boulder Ck. 8500'. W-NW (280-290) 4F (above LOC)

Avalanche Problems

Problem Location Distribution Sensitivity Size Comments
Persistent Slab
Isolated
Specific
Widespread
D1
D1.5
D2
D2.5
D3
D3.5
D4
D4.5
D5
 Layer Depth/Date: 50-55cm
Weak Layer(s): Dec 11, 2020 (FCsf)
Comments: ECTP12 SP/Q1, CPST 15/100 end. expected, consistent with other obssent videos to Davis. will post vid on IG.

Terrain Use

entrenched mindset - did not expect any information to change terrain selection, and feedback confirmed plan from the car.
low angle high 20's W aspect skiing conditions suitable for enjoyable boot top skiing. PS 20