Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Pro Field Report

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
February 22, 2020
Submitted:
February 22, 2020
Observer:
SAC - Martin Stefan (off duty)
Zone or Region:
Galena Summit and Eastern Mtns
Location:
Saviers pk area

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced

Snow Stability

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

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Clear
Wind:
Calm , S

Clear and calm weather, inverted temps in the morning. A thin veil of clouds formed late morning and dissipated early afternoon. S faces got moist but I did not see any wet activity. Light gusts from S at summit elevations, no snow transport to speak of.

Snowpack Observations

Surfaces are faceting as expected, especially where not wind hammered. In some areas, there is a thin wind skin - FCsf - polished alpine surface combo that for now makes mostly for difficult travel, but if loaded could be an issue. Mostly observed on E through S where I was today, but I think local wind effects and loading patterns are just as important as the large scale patterns for this specific structure.

Dropped a couple of cornices and stomped around, but wind slabs seem pretty settled by now and did not budge.

Terrain Use

I skied up to mid 40s in sheltered terrain with good run outs.