Pro Field Report

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
January 6, 2022
Submitted:
January 7, 2022
Observer:
SAC - Clyde Leonard
Zone or Region:
Island Park
Location:
Head of South Denny Creek

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
Isolated
Collapsing? 
None Experienced
Observed several small sluffs breaking within the wind slab on east facing aspects, averaging 6" to 8" deep. In every case they were triggered remotely as I was travelling on the sled. None ran more than 100'

Snow Stability

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

Bottom Line

With the addition of more snow adding stress to the weak layers within the wind drifts, the potential for avalanches breaking in pillows of soft snow is great. Stay out from under these hazards. There is plenty of untracked, deep snow with a good base covering the rocks and stumps that break sled parts! No need to expose your group to avalanche prone areas!

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Overcast
Wind:
Light , W
New/Recent Snowfall:
20cm HST

Avalanche Problems

Problem Location Distribution Sensitivity Size Comments
Wind Slab
Isolated
Specific
Widespread
Unreactive
Stubborn
Reactive
Touchy
D1
D1.5
D2
D2.5
D3
D3.5
D4
D4.5
D5
 Layer Depth/Date: 6"
Comments: This weak layer formed prior to the recent storm cycle during the subzero temperature period. Likely a NSF or a buried surface hoar. Because I am seeing remote triggers with very light weight, I am concerned with additional loading causing more instability in this layer.