Pro Field Report
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
December 4, 2022Submitted:
December 4, 2022Observer:
SAC - Jon PreussZone or Region:
Soldier and Wood River Valley MtnsLocation:
Kelly Mountain (All aspects from 5600'-8622')Signs of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
None ObservedCracking?
IsolatedCollapsing?
IsolatedSnow Stability
Stability Rating:
FairConfidence in Rating:
ModerateStability Trend:
SteadyBottom Line
The cold aspects held enough snow and weak layers to be capable of producing an avalanche. There was a crust on all aspects with facets above it and isolated areas of surface hoar below it. The most sensitive spots were where surface hoar was present and recent winds have built soft slabs. It was surprising to see standing surface hoar with a melt freeze crust on top.
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
Cloud Cover:
ObscuredWind:
Light , WNew/Recent Snowfall:
HN: 15-20cmPeriods of S2-3 with a brief opening during 1500hrs and more S1 on exit at 1600. Winds started out SE and switched to gusts of Moderate from the West. There was a moment were it was sleeting in the valley floor around 1100.
Avalanche Observations
Some cornice breaks on some of the NE paths but there didn't appear to be debris or crowns.
Snowpack Observations
Pit #1 6,300' NE 22* HS 65cm
CT15SC below 11/27 (crust in this location with 10-12mm surface hoar below it), ECTN22 above crust. 11/27 dn 31cm
Pit#2 8,700' NW 27* HS 87cm
See pit profile
Avalanche Problems
| Problem | Location | Distribution | Sensitivity | Size | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Persistent Slab
|
|
Layer Depth/Date: 35cm/1127 Weak Layer(s): Nov 27, 2022 (FC) Comments: Areas shaded had enough snow and weak layers to be a concern. |
There was a lot of previous wind effect and slab formation from the SE winds during the last storm. I didn't encounter any sensitive wind slabs today.
Terrain Use
Solo travel. Avoided being in avalanche terrain.