Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Pro Field Report

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
March 12, 2021
Submitted:
March 12, 2021
Observer:
SAC - Chris Lundy
Zone or Region:
Sawtooth and Western Smoky Mtns
Location:
Bench Weather Station (6500-7800', primarily S-E-N)

Signs of Unstable Snow

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

Snow Stability

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

Bottom Line

This was primarily a weather station maintenance trip, so relevant observations were limited. Temps remained cool enough that wet problems were likely not a significant issue today.

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Mostly Sunny
Temperature:
low 30s (estimated)

Slightly warmer than yesterday. Temps were warm in the sun but remained cool in the shade.

Snowpack Observations

Observations limited to lower elevations and the bottom edge of mid-elevations. Shady aspects have a thin crust beneath 2-3cm of recent snow that's now faceted. I suspect this crust goes away as you climb into the mid-elevations. Mid-elevation due south (approx 30*) was still supportable corn at 1400.

Avalanche Problems

No problems observed