Professional Observation
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
January 15, 2020 - January 15, 2020Submitted:
January 15, 2020Observer:
ProZone or Region:
Galena Summit and Eastern MtnsLocation:
Mushroom Ridge - 7800 -9400Signs of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
YesCracking?
None ExperiencedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedSnow Stability
Stability Rating:
FairConfidence in Rating:
ModerateStability Trend:
WorseningBottom Line
deeper layers of concern now showing signs of strain with the recent load. similar tests in same location showed no propagation in prior obs few weeks ago, but now with results on ECT and PST tests.
without rest will consider wider margins and stepping back in route plans.
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
CLR to BKN. calm and cold to start the day, then S/ SW winds gusting to Mod by mid pm with signs of new snow transport (skin track filling, new windslabs)
Avalanche Observations
| # | Date | Location | Size | Type | Bed Sfc | Depth | Trigger | Comments | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Past 48 hours |
Gladiator Pk NW 9400 |
D1 | SS | I-New/Old Interface | N-Natural | None |
Snowpack Observations
most prominent windslab development in areas exposed to NW winds. most prominent from 8800- 9400' (did not venture higher). 10-30cm thick (F+ --> 1F).
@9000', SE aspect, 30* HS 120
upper 70- 80 cm -- PP/DF. F-4F. no discernible LOC on CT or ECT
12/7 2mm FC @45cm LOC #1
oct snow? 3mm basal FC @15cm LOC #2
ECTP 29 on 3mm FC @15cm
PST 30/100 end @45 on 2mm buried FCsf
PST 40/100 end @15 on 3mm basal FC
Avalanche Problems
| Problem | Location | Distribution | Sensitivity | Size | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Wind Slab
|
|
although most prominent developement from NW winds, in alpine- more variable in distribution | |||
Persistent Slab
|
|
Layer Depth/Date: 12/7 still here - now more reactive than in prior obs in this zone prior to storm cycle. |
Terrain Use
closed obviously windloaded or windaffected terrain or slopes > low 30's. did not evaluate more wind pressed or wind slab affected terrain, but observed more significant results with recent load and I suspect these results would only be more pronounced where wind has enhanced cohesive nature of overlying slab
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