Pro Field Report

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
January 19, 2023 - January 20, 2023
Submitted:
January 19, 2023
Observer:
SAC - Bret Rasmussen
Zone or Region:
Island Park
Location:
SAWTELLE CREEK (South)

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
Isolated
Generally unreactive stability tests. We found at mid elevation that the snowpack can be more reactive.

Snow Stability

Stability Rating: 
Good
Confidence in Rating: 
Moderate
Stability Trend: 
Improving

Bottom Line

We are finding impressively strong snowpack. But we also have a weak layer buried about 2 feet into the snowpack that is very worrisome. It's deep enough that when triggered will be deadly, consider consequences and know where the persistent weak layer is before exposing your group. We have been on the snow all week and find lots of powder to play in without using slopes and connected terrain that is greater than 30 degrees.

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Mostly Cloudy
Temperature:
20f
Wind:
Calm , S
New/Recent Snowfall:
HN 2"

Light snow, no wind, 12" of snow available for transport. Surface forming in isolated areas.

Snowpack Observations

SE aspect, 7640 ft, HS 130, PWL buried SH 83, DH 45, CTHsc@83, ECTN23@45

Avalanche Problems

Problem Location Distribution Sensitivity Size Comments
Persistent Slab
Isolated
Specific
Widespread
Unreactive
Stubborn
Reactive
Touchy
D1
D1.5
D2
D2.5
D3
D3.5
D4
D4.5
D5
 Layer Depth/Date: 83
Weak Layer(s): Jan 5, 2023 (SH)
Comments: PWL buried SH 83, DH 45, CTHsc@83, ECTN23@45. This PWL is widespread, but not necessarily reactive in all areas. We did feel a collapse on this same aspect and elevation yesterday, so we went back to test and found some results.

Terrain Use

We have been on the snow all week and find lots of powder to play in without using slopes and connected terrain that is greater than 30 degrees.