Pro Field Report

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
January 7, 2021
Submitted:
January 7, 2021
Observer:
SAC - Davis, Creelman
Zone or Region:
Galena Summit and Eastern Mtns
Location:
Pole Creek (All aspects, 7,500-9,100')

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
Isolated
Collapsing? 
Widespread
Widespread, loud collapses including one that traveled over 300' to my ski partner.

Snow Stability

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

Bottom Line

The snowpack structure in this area was some of the worst I've seen this year. I took one step off my sled (supported by a stiffer midpack slab) and sank to my inseam. Trap-door skinning and widespread, far-reaching collapses abound.

Around 20 avalanches were observed in a relatively small area near Pole Creek Summit despite poor visibility. At least half were sizeable persistent slabs clustered on E and SE facing slopes.

Media/Attachments

A large slab avalanche that failed during the Jan 4-5th storm. E-facing slope at 9,500'. Scoured to the ground in some areas.
A large slab avalanche that failed during the Jan 4-5th storm. E-facing slope at 9,300'.
A pair of persistent slabs that failed during the Jan 4-5th storm. SE-facing slopes at 9,800'.
A large slab avalanche that failed during the Jan 4-5th storm. E-facing slope at 9,500'. Scoured to the ground in some areas.
Small persistent slab avalanche on a NE-facing slope at 8,600'. The slide failed on the mid-December (12/11) facets.
Small persistent slab avalanche on a NE-facing slope at 8,600'. The slide failed on the mid-December (12/11) facets.
Small persistent slab avalanches on sheltered, E-facing, benches at 8,400'.
https://youtu.be/E5x57TEk1X8

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Overcast
Wind:
Light , W
New/Recent Snowfall:
HN = 5 cm, HST = 20-25 cm

The sun tried to poke through but never did. Some very light snow showers throughout the day.

Avalanche Observations

 #  Date Location Size Type Bed Sfc Depth Trigger Photos Details
1 Jan 5, 2021
(+/- 1 day) 		Pole Creek Summit
E 9400ft 		D2 N-Natural
A large slab avalanche that failed during the Jan 4-5th storm. E-facing slope at 9,300'.
Report
1 Jan 5, 2021
(+/- 1 day) 		Pole Creek Summit
E 9400ft 		D1.5 SS-Soft Slab N-Natural Report
2 Jan 5, 2021
(+/- 1 day) 		Pole Creek Summit
SE 9800ft 		D2 SS-Soft Slab N-Natural
A pair of persistent slabs that failed during the Jan 4-5th storm. SE-facing slopes at 9,800'.
Report
1 Jan 5, 2021
(+/- 1 day) 		Pole Creek Summit
NE 9400ft 		D2.5 HS-Hard Slab N-Natural
A large slab avalanche that failed during the Jan 4-5th storm. E-facing slope at 9,500'. Scoured to the ground in some areas.
A large slab avalanche that failed during the Jan 4-5th storm. E-facing slope at 9,500'. Scoured to the ground in some areas.
Report
Pole Creek Summit
Pole Creek Summit
Pole Creek Summit
Pole Creek Summit

I would assume there were several more in the area. These were clustered in the only basin that we had decent visibility.

Snowpack Observations

HS = 100-110 cm

Low density new snow that stiffened above the weak layer (4F). Sugary mid-December facets (F). Then a bit stronger facets (4F-) to the ground.

Small persistent slab avalanche on a NE-facing slope at 8,600'. The slide failed on the mid-December (12/11) facets.

Avalanche Problems

Problem Location Distribution Sensitivity Size Comments
Persistent Slab
Isolated
Specific
Widespread
Unreactive
Stubborn
Reactive
Touchy
 Layer Depth/Date: 40-50 cm
Weak Layer(s): Dec 11, 2020 (FCsf)

Terrain Use

We had no desire to push anywhere near steep terrain.