Pro Field Report

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
November 3, 2022
Submitted:
November 4, 2022
Observer:
SAC - Davis, Preuss
Zone or Region:
Galena Summit and Eastern Mtns
Location:
Lower Titus Weather Station (N-E-S, 8,600-9,000')

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced
Small sun-induced sluffs on steep rocky, sunny aspects in the Smokys. These involved new snow from November 1-2. All were D1.

Snow Stability

Stability Rating: 
Very Good
Confidence in Rating: 
High
Stability Trend: 
Steady

Bottom Line

We did not encounter avalanche hazards on our hike. I'd suspect very small slabs may exist in isolated alpine terrain in the Smokys. Wind affect was evident in the Boulders, but coverage looked very thin.

Media/Attachments

Eagle Creek, Southern Boulder Mtns.
Southern Boulder Mtns
Butterfield near the head of Baker Creek. Smoky Mtns.
Titus Lake Chutes near Galena Pass.
Galena Peak, Boulder Mtns.
Headwaters of the Salmon River.
Alturas Lake Area

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Clear
Temperature:
15F
Wind:
Calm
New/Recent Snowfall:
HST = 10-17cm since 11/1

Some wind transport in the Boulders otherwise calm at Lower Titus and at Galena Pass. Sunny, and clear.

Snowpack Observations

The "snowpack" is generally comprised of two layers created by snowfall beginning on October 21st and subsequent snowfall beginning on November 1st. In some areas, there was a generally weak crust of variable thickness separating these layers.

9,000', SE:
HS = 15 cm. Upper 10 cm from November 1st snow. Lower 5 cm MFcr leftovers from October 21st snows.

9,000', NE:
HS = 35 cm. Upper 17 cm from November 1st snow (F). Lower 18 cm from October 21st snows (F).

Snowpack along the Titus Lake Trail. The upper layer is snowfall since November 1st. The lower layer is snowfall beginning October 21st. Total snow depth at this location was 14 in (35 cm). 9,000', NE aspect.

Avalanche Problems

No avalanche problems were observed on our hike although I'd be on the lookout for some small, isolated drifts in the alpine.