Pro Field Report
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
January 17, 2022Submitted:
January 18, 2022Observer:
SAC - VandenBosZone or Region:
Galena Summit and Eastern MtnsLocation:
Owl Creek (7,100-9,200, E-NE-N-NW)Signs of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
None ObservedCracking?
None ExperiencedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedSnow Stability
Stability Rating:
GoodConfidence in Rating:
ModerateStability Trend:
SteadyBottom Line
Weak snow at the base of the snowpack continues to drive terrain selection in this zone.
Media/Attachments
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
Cloud Cover:
Partly CloudyWind:
LightCalm to light winds, plenty of sunshine, above freezing ambient air temps
Snowpack Observations
Main objective was to look at the reported avalanche above Owl Creek, between the Powder Palace and the Austrian Chutes. I confirmed that this avalanche ran on 12/11, which presented here as large-grained DH (3-5mm, cupped, striated, chained in places) above a few sets of icy melt-freeze crusts. The avalanche failed towards the end of the storm, broke an estimated 50m wide, 80-100cm deep, and ran 300m vertically. A pit in the crown produced ECTP 14 and 17. The crusts associated with the weak layer here are harder/icier than I've seen in other locations but the weak snow in between the crusts is still well developed and not showing much in the line of signs of healing. DH grains are crisp, weak layer is 4F to 4F- (hard to say exactly as the layer was somewhat thin here.
Avalanche Problems
| Problem | Location | Distribution | Sensitivity | Size | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Persistent Slab
|
|
Weak Layer(s):
Dec 11, 2021 (FC)
Comments: Sensitivity in the murky middle ground somehwere between stubborn and unreactive. |
Terrain Use
Still avoiding steep avalanche terrain that hosts 12/11 in this zone, particularly on shaded slopes. Not because it is likely to be a problem, but because it is there and I can more confidently play in avalanche terrain elsewhere if so desired.