Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Pro Field Report

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
December 26, 2021
Submitted:
December 26, 2021
Observer:
Pro
Zone or Region:
Galena Summit and Eastern Mtns
Location:
Baker Lake TH, Castle Creek (N, S; 7000-8500')

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced
Surprised to see no obvious signs of instability today. Visibility was limited, but didn't observe anything in the terrain we did see.

Snow Stability

Stability Rating: 
Fair
Confidence in Rating: 
Moderate
Stability Trend: 
Worsening

Bottom Line

12/11 layer easily detected on N aspects in this zone with probing, almost too deep for pole pokes. Wx Hx and presence of PWL kept our playlist quite limited today. Fortunately one didn't need to venture far to find excellent skiing.

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Overcast
Temperature:
15F
Wind:
Moderate , SW
New/Recent Snowfall:
HN24 45cm.

Active SW flow all day. S1-S2. MogGStrong SW winds all day. Heavy wind transport out of SW. SP 40-50cm (SAFT)

Avalanche Observations

No avalanches observed today although vis was quite limited

Snowpack Observations

HS 100-140cm. 20 cm Crust Facet Matrix under 120 cm Right-side-up Storm Slab.

Avalanche Problems

Problem Location Distribution Sensitivity Size Comments
Deep 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: 12/11 80-100 cm
Weak Layer(s): Dec 11, 2021 (FC)
Comments: Where significant amounts of October snow present
Wind Slab
Isolated
Specific
Widespread
Unreactive
Stubborn
Reactive
Touchy
D1
D1.5
D2
D2.5
D3
D3.5
D4
D4.5
D5
Layer Depth/Date: 12/26 10-20
Comments: Be suspect of step downs to PWL

Terrain Use

Skied wind-protected terrain up to low 30's.