Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Pro Field Report

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
January 20, 2022
Submitted:
January 21, 2022
Observer:
SAC - Kevin Allred
Zone or Region:
Island Park
Location:
Hell Roaring (NE. Mid and Upper)

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced
We found a half inch layer of surface hoar two inches below the surface. With new snow falling this layer has the potential to become problematic

Snow Stability

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

Bottom Line

The snow pack has become very stable. Our small column and extended coulum test produced no results. We observed a facet layer 2.5 feet from the surface that was in later stages of rounding.

Media/Attachments

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Overcast
Temperature:
15°
Wind:
Light , SE
New/Recent Snowfall:
3 inches of new snow

Storm front arrived later in the day with increasing snow fall and winds into the evening and night. New snow available for transport

Avalanche Observations

No recent avalanches observed

Snowpack Observations

North East aspect upper elevation we conducted a Compression Test results CTN. Extended Column Test results ECTX

Avalanche Problems

The snowpack has become very stable. We observed a faceted layer deeper in the snow pack that was in early stages of rounding. We noted a layer of Surface Hoar buried two inches from the surface. This layer has the potential to develop into a persistent weak layer with new snow coming.

Terrain Use

We felt confident in a(stepping out) terrain use, being cautious of complex avalanche terrain