Pro Field Report
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
December 6, 2022 - December 6, 2022Submitted:
December 6, 2022Observer:
ProZone or Region:
Galena Summit and Eastern MtnsLocation:
Galena Pass: Camp Ck, Avalanche Pk (S, W, N | 8200 - 9400’)Signs of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
None ObservedCracking?
None ExperiencedCollapsing?
IsolatedSnow Stability
Stability Rating:
PoorConfidence in Rating:
ModerateStability Trend:
SteadyBottom Line
Left on tour curious about HS on mid elevation solar and PWL problem at mid elevation solar. Persistent hard signs of instabliity and formal obs with poor structure, low friction, and propagation confirmed skier triggered possible in avalanche terrain. Status quo, found no reason to be enthusiastic about changing terrain selection.
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
Cloud Cover:
Mostly CloudyTemperature:
18FWind:
Light , WNew/Recent Snowfall:
HN 3cm
Generally calm. W 5-10. OVC - BKN.
PS 20-25cm, PB 40-50
Avalanche Observations
No new naturals
Snowpack Observations
Camp Ck, 9200’, S, 20*
HS 90
Upper: (87-90) 3cm F- PP overnight overlying 10-15 cm F+ PP from 12/4
Mid: (40- 87) 47-50 cm 4F PP/ DF from 11/27
Lower: (0 -40) 1-2mm FC overlying 5cm thick MFCr down 50cm (*LOC*) , 2-3mm dry FC to base
HS thin on ridgelines, and solars where wind not attenuated by terrain or tree cover
Noticeable Increased density to 11/27 storm slab seen in pit from prior obs on 12/2 & 12/3 but suspect some degree of wind compression (not just settlement) as PS improved quickly with descent off ridge
Avalanche Problems
| Problem | Location | Distribution | Sensitivity | Size | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Persistent Slab
|
|
Layer Depth/Date: Down 5Ocm Weak Layer(s): Nov 27, 2022 (FC) Comments: CT12SC, ECTP13 on 11/27 |
Confirmed problem at mid elevation solar
Terrain Use
Closed avalanche terrain, and based on hard signs instability during travel and formal tests found no compelling reason to change plans.